LOOK: Pope accepts cross-stitch from man with cerebral palsy

MANILA - A man born with cerebral palsy got his wish to give a gift to Pope Francis during the latter's meeting with families at SM Mall of Asia.

Last year, John Angelo Ortiz said he would work night and day to finish a cross-stitch of Madonna Dolorosa in time for Pope Francis' visit to the Philippines.

Because of his disability, Ortiz had to use his feet to do the cross-stitch instead of his hands. He said cross-stitching is his way of thanking God.

On Friday, Ortiz got his wish after the Pope made his way through the crowd inside the arena and tousled Ortiz's hair.

The Pope blessed the cross-stitch before being told that the piece was done by Ortiz. The Pope asked Ortiz about the artwork and shook Ortiz's hand before accepting the gift.

ANC, January 16, 2015