As expected, Donald Trump’s message following the death of Pope Francis was anything but conventional—and the internet had plenty to say.
On April 21, news of Pope Francis’s passing sent shockwaves around the world. Global leaders issued heartfelt statements, including former U.S. President Donald Trump. Posting on Truth Social, Trump began with a traditional message: “Rest in peace Pope Francis! May God bless him and all who loved him!” He also called for American flags to be flown at half-staff in the Pope’s honor.
But it wasn’t the tribute itself that drew attention—it was Trump’s tone in announcing his funeral plans. In a distinctly upbeat style, he wrote: “Melania and I will be going to the funeral of Pope Francis, in Rome. We look forward to being there!”
That cheerful phrasing quickly set off a wave of criticism on X (formerly Twitter). Many found it oddly casual, more suited to a festive occasion than a solemn state funeral. “Bold choice of words for a funeral,” one user quipped, while another joked, “Sounds like he’s going to Coachella, not Vatican City.” Sarcastic responses rolled in, from imagined wine lists to fashion critiques.
Still, some defended Trump’s message, emphasizing the importance of his attendance over his wording. “At least he’s showing up,” one commenter noted. “That’s more than many expected.”
Trump and Pope Francis had a complicated history. Early on, Trump praised the Pope’s humility—while drawing a comparison to himself. But tensions grew, particularly in 2016 when Pope Francis criticized wall-building policies, indirectly referencing Trump. Trump fired back, calling it “disgraceful” for a religious leader to question someone’s faith.
Their face-to-face meeting at the Vatican in 2017 was brief and strained, and their ideological divide only widened from there—especially on issues like immigration, climate change, and social justice. Even after retaking office in 2025, Trump’s aggressive immigration policies drew fresh criticism from the Pope, who called mass deportations “a disgrace.”
Despite their differences, Trump’s tribute struck a more respectful tone, and his decision to attend the funeral underscores the weight of the moment.
Vice President JD Vance, who had recently met Pope Francis, also shared his own tribute, recalling a moving homily from the pandemic’s early days. “He was clearly very ill,” Vance wrote, “but I’ll always remember that moment.”
The Vatican has confirmed that Pope Francis’s funeral will take place Saturday, April 26, at 10 AM in St. Peter’s Square. He will be buried at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, per his final wishes—choosing a simpler resting place over the traditional tombs at St. Peter’s Basilica.
Trump’s trip to Rome marks his first official foreign visit since returning to the White House. While his presence is unlikely to go unnoticed, it will be watched closely—both diplomatically and symbolically.
As the world prepares to say goodbye to a spiritual leader known for challenging political power with moral conviction, Trump’s involvement—and his tone—has once again stirred debate.
So what do you think: was his “looking forward to being there” line a tone-deaf misstep, or just classic Trump being Trump?
Does intent matter more than tone—or should words always match the gravity of the moment?
