The Vatican is investigating how Pope Francis' Instagram account wound up 'liking' a racy picture of an Instagram models' derrière.
The picture 'liked' by the Pope's account features Brazillian model Natalia Garabitto in a skimpy schoolgirl outfit, leant up against some lockers. The 'like' was first noticed on November 13, vanishing by November 14.
According to the Catholic News Agency sources close to the Vatican press office have said an internal investigation is underway to find out how the picture was 'liked'.
Sources also confirmed Pope Francis' social media accounts are run by a team of employees, suggesting the Pope himself may not be the culprit.
A Vatican spokesperson told The Guardian it would also be seeking answers from Instagram itself, reinforcing again it was not Pope Francis doing the thirst-trap liking.
"We can exclude that the 'like' came from the Holy See, and it has turned to Instagram for explanations."
Garibotto, who has 2.5 million Instagram followers, has been delighted by the 'like' reportedly joking that it meant she was going to heaven.
At the time, Garibatto told Barstool Sports: "My mum may hate my ass pics but the Pope do be double-tapping."
Barstool Sports shared a screen recording showing Pope Francis' like on Saturday with the simple caption: "Pope Francis is horny as hell."
Garibatto's management team COY Co. were just as excited. Using the publicity to their advantage, they posted on their own Instagram claiming they "received the Pope's official blessing."
Pope Francis' himself has proved popular on social media with 7.4 million Instagram followers and 18.8 million Twitter followers.
