Pope Francis Has Some Advice for Hairdressers

Pope Francis might not be hearing much chit-chat the next time he gets his hair cut. The pontiff advised some 230 members of Italy's association of hairdressers, hairstylists, and beauticians who visited him during a pilgrimage to Rome to "avoid falling into the temptation of gossip that is easily associated with your work," reports Reuters. Instead, he said, they should learn from Martin de Porres, patron saint of barbers, and work with "Christian style, treating clients with gentleness and courtesy, offering them always a good word and encouragement." Vatican News reports that the pope praised the "humble and great" de Porres during the Monday visit. The 16th-century barber-surgeon in Lima was said to have performed miracles including levitation and being in two places at once. (More Pope Francis stories.)