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It was given as an encouragement to read the Word of God, reported the Catholic News Agency.

They were handed out among the crowd by volunteers.

"Last Sunday I suggested that you get a little copies of the gospels, to carry with you during the day, to read often," Pope Francis told the crowd.

"Then I thought over the ancient tradition of the Church, during Lent, to give the Gospel to catechumens preparing for baptism.

So today I want to offer to you who are here in the piazza - but as a sign for all - a pocket-sized gospel. They will be distributed to you freely," the Pope explained.

"Take one, carry it with you: it is truly Jesus who speaks to you," he urged those packed into the square.

"This is the word of Jesus!"

The Holy Father then asked that the faithful remember Christ's words, "freely have you received, freely give!" so that they too would "give the message of the gospel" to others.

Pope Francis acknowledged that some may be sceptical of a free gift, asking "how much does it cost? How much must I pay, father?".

"But let's do something," he suggested.

"In exchange for this gift, do an act of charity, a free gesture of love for another: a prayer for a friend, a reconciliation, something."

Whether in a book or on a smartphone or tablet, said the Pope, "the important thing is to read the word of God, with all means, but read the word - it's Jesus who speaks there".

"And welcome it with an open heart. So the good seed bears fruit!"

Last Lent, Pope Francis had volunteers distribute free rosaries in boxes resembling pill packets, likening them to spiritual medicine.

Sources

• Catholic News Agency
• Huffington Post
• Image: New York Daily News