POPE WATCH: Clerical groans for Pope's early departure

MANILA, Philippines - The priests and nuns waiting for Pope Francis at a cathedral in the central Philippines must have been a bit surprised when he breezed in without the usual singing and ceremony.

The bigger surprise was yet to come.

Francis took the microphone and, after lightening up the mood with a few words, said, "I'd like to tell you something that displeases me."

He then explained that his plane's pilots insisted he would have to return to Manila almost immediately because of an approaching storm, canceling the rest of Saturday's visit.

"Nohhhhhh," some of the gathered clergy groaned, though in a good-natured way, some smiling despite the unfortunate turn of events.

Francis apologized, and led them in prayer before zipping to the airport.

 

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