President Biden and wife Jill arrive at Pope Francis’ funeral, smiling and posing for selfies with mourners in Vatican City.
On April 26, 2025, former President Joe Biden and his wife, Jill Biden, attended the funeral of Pope Francis at Saint Peter’s Square in Vatican City.
The couple arrived early in the morning to pay their respects to the late pontiff.
Biden, who is 82 years old, has had a long-standing connection with Pope Francis, having met him three times during his vice presidency.
Biden’s careful arrival at Pope Francis’ funeral
As the Bidens made their way to the seating area, Joe Biden held onto Jill and a priest for support while carefully descending the stairs.
The couple was not seated near current heads of state, including President Donald Trump. Instead, they found their place further back in the section designated for foreign dignitaries.
This arrangement reflects their status as former leaders rather than current ones.
Biden is notable for being only the second Roman Catholic president in U.S. history, following John F. Kennedy. His faith has played a significant role in his life and presidency.
During his vice presidency, he had the honor of leading the U.S. delegation to Pope Francis’ inauguration in March 2013.
Their relationship has deep roots, having met during the pope’s visit to Washington, D.C., when he addressed Congress.
Former President Joe Biden slammed for smiling and taking selfies with mourners at Pope Francis’ funeral
The last meeting between Biden and Pope Francis occurred during Biden’s trip to Italy in June 2024 for the G7 summit.
This connection highlights Biden’s commitment to his faith and the importance of the pope’s messages on global issues.
The former president has often spoken about the profound impact that Pope Francis has had on him personally and on the world.
Before the funeral service began at 10 a.m., Biden was seen taking a selfie with a fellow mourner.
This moment captured his approachable nature and ability to connect with others, even during such a solemn occasion. It showed that he values the shared experience of mourning and celebration of Pope Francis’ life.
Biden paid tribute to the late Pope
After the pope’s passing on April 21, 2025, Biden took a moment to pay tribute to him.
He described Pope Francis as “unlike any who came before him,” emphasizing the unique qualities that made the pontiff a remarkable leader.
Biden acknowledged that Pope Francis will be remembered as one of the most influential figures of our time. He expressed his gratitude for having known him, highlighting the personal impact the pope had on his life.
“He was unlike any who came before him. Pope Francis will be remembered as one of the most consequential leaders of our time and I am better for having known him,” he continued.
“He made all feel welcome and seen by the Church,” he continued.
“He promoted equity and an end to poverty and suffering across the globe. And above all, he was a Pope for everyone. He was the People’s Pope – a light of faith, hope, and love,” Biden said.
The legacy of Pope Francis
Pope Francis was known for his progressive views and compassionate approach to leadership.
His emphasis on social justice, environmental issues, and interfaith dialogue made him a respected figure worldwide.
Biden’s reflections on the pope’s legacy resonate with many who admired his efforts to reach out to people from all walks of life.
As the funeral service proceeded, the atmosphere in Saint Peter’s Square was filled with sorrow and respect.
Mourners from around the globe gathered to honor the late pope, reflecting on his contributions to the Church and the world.
The presence of Biden and other leaders highlighted the significance of the moment, as they gathered to pay their final respects.
Social media reactions
One user said: Big difference between getting photo taken randomly than being disrespectful and calling the press for a photo shoot while having a meeting with Ukraine’s leader during a funeral for a Pope.
No. Comparison. Here.
The second user wrote: He thinks he’s at Coachella.
The third user commented: He’s like “yay they let me out of the basement again”
The fourth user added: He thinks he’s attending a wedding
Another user said: It wasn’t ice cream time