A surprising incident at one of the most solemn ceremonies in the Catholic Church has sparked widespread attention well beyond the Vatican.
JD Vance, a divisive political figure known for his blunt remarks, met with the newly appointed Pope Leo XIV. What should have been a respectful and traditional moment instead turned into an awkward spectacle that left many questioning Vance’s grasp of religious etiquette.
Was this merely an unfortunate misstep, or was there something more deliberate behind it? The episode has ignited a wave of both criticism and curiosity that continues to grow.
After the passing of Pope Francis last month at the age of 88, anticipation mounted over who would take the helm as the new leader of the Catholic Church.
On May 8, it was revealed that Cardinal Robert Prevost, aged 69, had been chosen as the next pope, taking the name Pope Leo XIV and becoming the first American to hold the position. However, it soon became clear that the Vice President might not be fully familiar with Catholic customs, as one particular action during his encounter with the pontiff drew considerable backlash.
Pope Leo XIV has been vocal about his views on Republican politics, with several of his previous remarks resurfacing online. These included critiques of policies under former President Trump and others, highlighting moral concerns. His statements emphasized compassion and challenged political decisions seen as harmful, including policies that separated children from their families at the border.
In response to JD Vance’s public comments regarding Christian love and political priorities, the pope shared an editorial questioning Vance’s interpretation of faith and compassion. Vance had previously expressed a hierarchical view of love — first for family, then community, then the broader world — which the pope’s critics argued was contrary to Christian teachings about universal love.
Despite the tensions, Vance expressed a measured response, stating that he respected the pope and would continue to pray for him and the Church, even amid disagreements.
However, during their May 18 meeting, Vance reportedly committed another breach of protocol. After exchanging greetings, he extended his arm and lightly tapped the pope on the elbow—a gesture that quickly sparked outrage across social media.
Critics described the action as disrespectful and condescending, comparing it to an informal pat one might give a casual acquaintance rather than a revered religious leader. Comments ranged from calling it an embarrassing moment to suggesting it revealed a lack of understanding of the sacred nature of the occasion.
Proper etiquette when meeting the pope includes addressing him with honorifics such as “Your Holiness” and refraining from physical contact unless initiated by the pontiff, typically limited to a handshake.
In summary, JD Vance’s recent gesture during his meeting with Pope Leo XIV has intensified existing tensions and underscored the ideological differences between the two figures. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting deeply rooted traditions and ceremonial protocols, especially within the symbolic and sacred context of the Vatican.
Meanwhile, Pope Leo’s willingness to publicly challenge certain political positions demonstrates the increasingly complex role religious leaders play in contemporary political debates. As this story develops, it highlights the intricate interplay between faith, politics, and personal conduct on a global stage.