He came "like a thunderbolt out of the blue".

With such a heroic description, you'd think Vatican canteen chef Franco Pai'ni was talking about a superhero in action.

But no, he was talking about someone real, about someone who many see as some sort of modern-day hero, as a living saint almost, or just simply as an honest-to-goodness nice guy.

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Pope Francis, much loved by both Catholics and non-Catholics alike, once again showed his genuine love for people by having lunch at the Vatican cafeteria to get to know the Vatican's staff.

He came in unannounced, Pai'ni said in an interview with Vatican Radio.

Pai'ni shared that Pope Francis waited in line like everybody else and, ordered fusilli pasta without sauce, cod, grilled tomatoes and a few pieces of French fries.

Cashier Claudio Di Giacomo commented that she "didn't have the courage to give him the bill" when he went over to her register to pay.

The Pope gratefully thanked Di Giacomo for a free meal.

The Vatican newspaper, L'Osservatore Romano, whose employees also dine at the said canteen, reported that the Pope was charming. He sat with Vatican pharmacy warehouse workers and chitchatted with them about their work, soccer and the economy.

Before he left, the Pope gave the people his blessing, took photos with the excited diners and complimented the cafeteria staff regarding the food.

Pope Francis usually dines at the Vatican guesthouse where he resides.

Since Pope Francis took office, news and anecdotes of his charity, humility and acceptance of people from all walks of life have spread throughout the world.

Some of his many notable deeds include being outspoken about the frivolous spending in the Catholic Church, sneaking out at night to feed the homeless, and lifting judgment off of homosexuals and women who have children out of wedlock.

TagsPope Francis, Vatican, Papal visit, Pope's US visit