Pope Francis has a message for Catholics: Put down your smartphone during Mass.

During a general audience at St. Peter's Square in Vatican City on Wednesday morning, Francis chastised Catholics who use their phones during Mass.

Pope Francis: use of phones during services a "very ugly thing." Credit:AP

"At some point, the priest during the Mass says, 'Lift up your hearts,'" the pontiff said. "He does not say, 'Lift up your mobile phones to take pictures.'"

The remarks drew applause, particularly after Francis called the use of phones during services a "very ugly thing."