Pope Francis news: Pontiff admits he doesn't know how to use a computer

Although he earlier called the Internet a "gift from God," Pope Francis admitted this week that he does not know how to use a computer.

Pope Francis, the leader of the Roman Catholic Church and the head of the Vatican City state, made this admission during a worldwide Google Hangout for children with special needs.

The 78-year-old pontiff was asked during an online chat by a girl from Spain named Alicia if he likes taking pictures and downloading them on his computer.

To this question, Pope Francis, who was taking online queries at the Vatican audience hall, replied: ""I have to tell you the truth. I am a disaster with machines. I am not able to use computers."

Pope Francis used the Spanish word "tronco", or tree trunk, when he answered Alicia's question. This word is colloquially used to refer to someone who is very clumsy, or a disaster at something.

After making this admission, the Pope said while laughing, "What an embarrassment, right?"

A report from The Business Insider said the event was part of the Pope's Scholas initiative, which seeks to unite the youth through sports, arts and technology.

During the event, children also showed Pope Francis how to use tablets and video cameras.

During the celebration of World Communications Day last year, Pope Francis called the Internet a "gift from God," since it "offers immense possibilities for encounter and solidarity."

The Pope nevertheless also encouraged the youth not "to waste too many hours on futile things," including the Internet and smartphones.