Pope reveals fondness for beauty vlogs in meeting with YouTubers

Pontiff tells social media stars they create virtual circles to which followers belong, laying 'paths of optimism and hope'

Pope Francis demonstrated his digital credentials on Sunday by holding an intimate meeting with YouTube stars, throwing his support behind popular beauty videos and encouraging his celebrity guests to help young people create virtual identities.

Immediately after the meeting Pope Francis addressed participants of an educational conference at the Vatican, attended by actors including Salma Hayek, Richard Gere and George Clooney, who was accompanied by his wife, human rights lawyer Amal Clooney.