Fury sparks as mourners take disrespectful selfies in front of Pope Francis’ body, with some posting smiling photos during the viewing.
Many people are mourning the loss of Pope Francis, who passed away recently.
However, some mourners are causing a stir by taking selfies next to his open casket.
This behavior has drawn criticism from others who feel it is disrespectful.
Mourners from around the world gather at St. Peter’s Basilica.
Since the news of Pope Francis’ death, thousands have traveled to St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City.
They come to pay their respects and honor the late pope. Reports indicate that around 50,000 people visited the basilica over a few days.
Many are there to remember the pope’s life and legacy.
‘Disrespectful’ mourners spark fury as they take selfies and smile beside Pope Francis’ body
While most visitors show sadness and respect, some have been taking selfies beside the pope’s body.
This has upset many other mourners. Some people have even posted smiling photos on social media while standing next to the casket.
This act has been met with anger from those who see it as inappropriate.
A UK tourist, Martin Gilsenan, shared his observations.
He mentioned that people were asked to put away their phones when they reached the front of the line. However, many still took pictures, ignoring the requests.
“There were also many people looking around and getting upset with those on the phones,” he said, with images showing others crowding around taking pics, despite being told not to..
“I found the mobile phones very distasteful,” added Gilsenan’s wife, Catherine. “I was very surprised there were photos.”
Mixed reactions from visitors
Other visitors have echoed these sentiments.
Janine Venables from Wales commented on the situation, saying she was surprised to see people taking photos when they were told not to in other areas, like the Sistine Chapel.
“What did surprise me is the fact that earlier we were told no photos in the Sistine Chapel and here people were getting their phone out and doing selfies with the coffin,”she said.
“I did think that was a bit in poor taste, and I’m surprised no one stopped them,” she added.
The behavior of some mourners has overshadowed the solemnity of the occasion.
Pope Francis requested simple arrangements for his funeral.
Pope Francis had specific wishes for his funeral. He wanted to keep the rituals simple, reflecting his belief that a pope should be seen as a humble pastor rather than a powerful figure.
His casket was not placed on an elevated platform, which is customary for past popes.
Instead, it remained at a lower level, allowing more people to see and pay their respects.
His body was positioned to face the pews, surrounded by Swiss Guards, adding to the sense of solemnity.
The basilica was quiet as mourners moved slowly to view the pope.
This slow procession allowed people to take a moment to reflect on the pope’s impact on the world.
World leaders prepare to attend Pope Francis’ funeral.
Pope Francis’ funeral is set to take place in St. Peter’s Square on Saturday at 10 a.m.
Many world leaders, including U.S. President Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, are expected to attend.
This gathering will bring together many people from different backgrounds to honor the late pope.
The response to the pope’s passing has been vast, with messages of condolence pouring in from around the globe.
His leadership and compassion touched many lives, and his funeral is expected to be a significant event.