Mourners snapping selfies with the late Pope Francis' open coffin have sparked outrage at St. Peter's Basilica. Nearly 130,000 people have visited to pay respects to the pontiff, who lies in state. Vatican officials are now cracking down on this disrespectful behavior.
Newsmax reported that the controversy erupted as thousands flocked to honor Pope Francis, with some using smartphones to capture photos and selfies.
Social media, including TikTok videos, showed individuals posing in front of the coffin. This prompted swift action from Vatican authorities to restore decorum.
On Wednesday, CNN footage revealed mourners openly photographing the late Pope. The images drew sharp criticism online, with one TikTok comment calling the act "so disrespectful," garnering over 7,000 likes. The backlash highlighted a growing disregard for solemnity in sacred spaces.
By Thursday, Vatican officials responded to the uproar, directing visitors to stow their phones. They cited a 1996 directive banning photography or filming of a deceased Pope without approval. The rule, meant to preserve dignity, has struggled against the rise of smartphones.
The 1996 directive explicitly prohibits capturing images of the Pope "on his sickbed or after death." Only the camerlengo, a high-ranking Vatican official, can authorize such images for documentary purposes. This longstanding policy underscores the Vatican's commitment to reverence.
Despite the rule, the ubiquity of smartphones has complicated enforcement. Mourners, caught up in the moment, have ignored the ban, treating a sacred event like a photo opportunity. The challenge reflects a broader cultural shift toward casual irreverence.
The public viewing of Pope Francis began earlier this week and has drawn massive crowds. By Friday at 6 p.m. local time, the viewing will conclude, ending a period of communal mourning. The turnout reflects the pontiff's global influence and legacy.
Following the viewing, a funeral Mass is scheduled for Saturday morning in St. Peter's Square. The ceremony will mark a formal farewell to Pope Francis, whose leadership shaped the Catholic Church for years. Dignitaries from around the world are expected to attend.
Among the notable attendees will be President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump. Former President Joe Biden and former first lady Jill Biden will also be present. Their participation underscores the global significance of the event.
After the funeral Mass, a procession will carry Pope Francis' body through Rome's streets. This route fulfills the late Pope's wish to be buried outside the Vatican. The procession will be a poignant moment for mourners lining the path.
Pope Francis will be laid to rest at the Basilica of St. Mary Major. The site holds special significance for the pontiff, who often visited it during his papacy. His final resting place will reflect his deep connection to Rome.
The selfie controversy has cast a shadow over an otherwise solemn occasion. Vatican officials hope their renewed enforcement will refocus attention on the pontiff's legacy. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for respect in sacred moments.
The rise of smartphones has made it harder to maintain reverence at events like this. Nearly three decades after the 1996 directive, technology has outpaced traditional controls. The Vatican now faces the task of balancing accessibility with sanctity.
Social media amplifies these challenges, as platforms like TikTok spread irreverent content instantly. The viral nature of the selfie videos has embarrassed officials and mourners alike. It raises questions about how to preserve dignity in a digital age.