The Procession to Santa Maria Maggiore
\nFor the final interment, the coffin traveled through <\/p>\n
St. Peter\u2019s Square in a flower-adorned vehicle. Onlookers observed moments of silent prayer and, in some cases, small diplomatic exchanges along the route.<\/p>\n
It was during this procession\u2014captured by countless cameras\u2014that many observers noted behaviors they considered at odds with the funeral\u2019s sacred solemnity.<\/p>\n
4. Photography and Phone-Use Controversies
\nA Brazilian Priest\u2019s Selfie<\/p>\n
Earlier in the week, images circulated of a Brazilian priest who approached the open catafalque in St. Peter\u2019s Basilica and snapped a selfie with Pope Francis\u2019s body in the background. The act prompted an official Vatican appeal. A spokesperson told The Times:<\/p>\n
\u201cVisitors are invited not to take photos. This is a moment of prayer and respect.\u201d
\nDespite the request, many pilgrims ignored the warning, using smartphones to record the display.<\/p>\n
Snapping Photos during the Mass
\nDuring the funeral Mass itself, cameras captured multiple attendees\u2014clergy and lay alike\u2014raising phones to photograph the pope\u2019s gilded coffin as it proceeded past the high altar.<\/p>\n
The Tradition of Black Mourning Attire
\nIn Catholic funerals, black garments symbolize grief and humility. Even in warmer climates, the virtuous display of mourning colors unites mourners in silent solidarity. Heads of state typically honor this custom; deviations are rare and conspicuous.<\/p>\n
President Trump\u2019s Navy Ensemble
\nContrary to expectation, President Trump arrived in a bright navy-blue suit paired with a blue tie, rather than the customary black. <\/p>\n
Surrounded by world leaders in darker hues, he \u201cstuck out like a sore thumb,\u201d as some put it. One social-media user commented:<\/p>\n
\u201cOf all the world leaders in black, Trump in blue looks like he wandered off a news anchor set.\u201d<\/p>\n
Prince William\u2014wearing a darker navy suit\u2014also drew attention, but the president\u2019s lighter shade and vivid tie color garnered the most criticism.
\nMelania Trump\u2019s Outerwear<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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