Pope Francis -- SPINNIN' BASKETBALLS ... With Harlem Globetrotters!

The Harlem Globetrotters added a new member to the squad -- he's 5'9" .... hails from Vatican City ... and can SPIN A BALL ON HIS FINGER .... welcome, Pope Francis!!!!

Yes, even Jesus hates the Washington Generals now ... because His Holiness has been named an honorary member of the squad ... which is celebrating its 90th year on the court.

You HAVE to watch the video -- the guys try to help Mr. Pope pull off one of their signature tricks ... and he kinda sorta pulls it off!

A rep for the team tells TMZ Sports, "This is only the 9th time in 90 years that we've had an honorary member. He knew who they were. He was laughing with the guys. He was very talkative."

In fact, the team actually invited their newest member to their Friday night game in Rome ... question is, will he suit up?