Pope Francis admits: 'When I pray, sometimes I fall asleep'

Pope Francis has admitted he sometimes falls asleep while praying. The pontiff made the confession during an episode aired on the Catholic TV2000 programme. The 80-year-old also claimed he follows a string of saints who napped while praying. When I pray, sometimes I fall asleep," he said. "Saint Therese did it too." He also said praying should make Christians feel like children lying in their fathers' arms, implying relaxation is an important part of the process.

The Argentinian head of the Roman Catholic church reportedly radiates energy in person, but is very serious when he prays, bowing his head for long periods, according to AFP. He is reportedly in bed by 9pm and wakes around 4am. The Vatican said he copes with the long hours by having a nap after lunch.