Pope Francis befriends little boy who won't leave the stage

(UPI) -- A little boy in a yellow shirt stole hearts -- including the pope's -- during an address in St. Peter's Square on Sunday, by sidling up to Pope Francis on stage and refusing to leave.

The unidentified boy appeared to have been chosen to stand with a group of children during the address, but he stayed put beside Pope Francis after walking up to the 67-year-old pontiff for a cuddle.

Though cardinals repeatedly tried to usher the boy away, but were unsuccessful. Pope Francis didn't seem to mind, however, patting the boy's head and allowing him to sit on his chair.

You can watch video of the event below, with the boy hitting his adorable stride at 3:22:45.