Pope Francis Laid to Rest Amid Mourning, Selfie Controversy, and Political Buzz
The world came together in grief this past weekend as Pope Francis was laid to rest in a solemn ceremony that brought over 200,000 mourners to St. Peter’s Square on April 26, 2025. But while the service marked the end of an era for the Catholic Church, it also sparked unexpected headlines — and plenty of online backlash.
A Historic Gathering at the Vatican
Leaders from across the globe, religious dignitaries, and everyday faithful filled the square to honor a man known for his humility, compassion, and lifelong dedication to service. The air was heavy with prayer and remembrance, but it didn’t take long for the solemn mood to be punctured by a few eyebrow-raising moments.
Joe Biden’s Selfies Spark Outrage
Former U.S. President Joe Biden arrived with his wife, Jill, but quickly drew criticism for snapping selfies as he entered the square. Social media erupted.
“Snapping selfies at the Pope’s funeral is extremely inappropriate,” one user wrote.
Another posted:
“Wow, selfies at a funeral. That’s messed up.”
It wasn’t just Biden under the spotlight. Ugandan MP Thomas Tayebwa shared a smiling photo of himself with Biden, calling Pope Francis his “spiritual leader.” But many saw the photo op as tone-deaf, arguing that a funeral is a time for reflection — not personal promotion.
Trump, Melania, and the “Fake Melania” Conspiracy
Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump and Melania Trump sparked a different kind of buzz. The internet lit up the day before the funeral when a video surfaced of the couple boarding a plane — prompting new rounds of the long-running “Fake Melania” conspiracy theory. Viewers speculated that Melania looked noticeably different, pointing to her lighter hair and flat shoes.
At the funeral, however, Melania appeared in her signature style — a black coat, lace veil, and heels — looking composed and solemn.
But the spotlight followed her even during the Mass. According to The Daily Mail, a forensic lip reader claimed Melania nudged Trump during the Catholic “sign of peace,” whispering, “You should do it.” Trump allegedly replied, “Oh, alright,” before offering a handshake to French President Emmanuel Macron.
Later that day, Melania posted on Instagram that the funeral had fallen on her birthday, saying she prayed for “healing and peace in the world.”
A Final Farewell — and Lingering Questions
As the funeral mass concluded, a wave of applause broke out across the square — a rare, emotional tribute. Flags from Argentina fluttered in the breeze, and many looked up at the now-empty papal balcony, remembering the man who once stood there, blessing the crowds.
But even amid the tears and tributes, the controversies — selfies, conspiracy theories, awkward political moments — continued to ripple through the global conversation.
And with that, a larger question emerged:
Is taking a photo at a funeral truly wrong? Or is it simply a modern way to process and preserve our experiences?
Some see it as deeply disrespectful, especially at events of such sacred importance. Others argue it’s just the reality of life in a digital age — where every moment, even grief, is captured and shared.
In an era where personal memory and public spectacle so often overlap, the line between reverence and distraction remains as blurred as ever.
