Importance Score: 72 / 100 🔴
Donald Trump‘s attendance at Pope Francis’ funeral was marked by a potentially awkward moment, averted thanks to quick thinking from his wife, Melania Trump. The former president nearly committed a diplomatic misstep during the service, highlighting the significance of international protocol. The gathering in Vatican City drew leaders and dignitaries from across the globe to honor the late pontiff.
Melania Trump’s Intervention at Papal Funeral
Over 250,000 mourners convened in St Peter’s Square to honor Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88. The assembly included numerous foreign dignitaries, global leaders, and royalty, with representatives from approximately 130 nations and international organizations.
The American delegation was led by President Trump, 78, and Melania, 55, who arrived in Rome the previous evening. During the three-hour Catholic mass, an incident occurred that required Melania’s intervention.
The ‘Sign of Peace’ Moment
During the Catholic mass, attendees were invited to participate in the ‘Sign of Peace’ ritual by exchanging handshakes.
Video footage revealed Trump observing the proceedings without engaging in the ritual, prompting Melania to step in.
According to Nicola Hickling, a forensic lip reader, Melania urged her husband to begin shaking hands.
“You should do it,” Melania reportedly whispered to Trump.
“Oh, alright,” the former president responded.
He then extended his hand to greet Estonia’s President Alar Karis, Spain’s King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia, and subsequently French President Emmanuel Macron. The pair engaged in a prolonged handshake, narrowly averting what could have been a significant diplomatic error.
Dress Code Controversy at the Vatican
Trump’s attire choices also sparked attention during the event. Arriving in a blue suit and matching tie, his outfit diverged from the expected formal wear, leading to criticism on social media.
Strict Funeral Attire Requirements
The established dress code for the Vatican event specified that men should wear a dark suit paired with a long black tie and a white shirt. Black shoes, socks, coats, and umbrellas were also mandated.
Several leaders, including Volodymyr Zelensky and Joe Biden, also faced scrutiny for their attire, although the majority of world leaders adhered to the all-black dress code.
Trump, seated in the front row among foreign dignitaries, sported a mid-blue suit complemented by an American flag pin and a shiny blue tie.
Reactions on Social Media
- X users questioned Trump’s decision to wear a blue suit to a funeral.
- Comments cited a lack of respect: ‘How disrespectful Trump is wearing a blue suit to a funeral.’
- Another X user questioned: ‘Did he not have a black suit? At least a dark blue one? Where is the respect?’
Other Attendees’ Attire
Prince William also faced some criticism for wearing a dark navy suit, although he did wear a black tie, adhering to part of the dress code.
Melania Trump, in contrast, adhered strictly to the Vatican’s dress regulations, opting for a black blazer, a modest calf-length pencil skirt, black closed-toe shoes, a black lace veil, matching gloves, and a diamond-studded cross pendant.
The Funeral Service for Pope Francis
More than 250,000 individuals gathered in St Peter’s Square to commemorate Pope Francis following his death on Easter Monday.
The ceremonies included key liturgical elements:
- The entrance antiphon, the Penitential Act, and the opening prayer.
- Readings in English (by Kielce Gussie) and Spanish (by Edgar Pineda), followed by Universal prayers.
- Cardinal Re sprinkled the coffin with holy water and incense.
Final Commendation and Burial
The valedictory rite, final commendation, and formal entrustment of the Pope to God took place. Francis’s coffin was then transported to Santa Maria Maggiore for a private burial.
This decision made Francis the first pontiff in over a century to be buried outside of St Peter’s Basilica, following in the footsteps of Pope Leo XIII, who died in 1903.