JD Vance sparks outrage after breaking major Vatican rule that’s ‘basically giving God the finger’

JD Vance, the Vice President of the United States, recently took a three-day trip to Italy during Holy Week. During the visit, he had the chance to meet with important people, including Pope Francis. The meeting was especially significant because it happened just a day before the Pope sadly passed away on Easter Monday, April 21.

Pope Francis, who led the Catholic Church for over 10 years, will be buried this coming Saturday. After hearing the news, JD Vance shared a heartfelt message online. He said, “I just learned of the passing of Pope Francis. My heart goes out to the millions of Christians around the world who loved him.” He also mentioned how special it was to see the Pope one last time, even though he appeared very ill. Vance shared a memory of a meaningful message the Pope gave during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, calling it “really quite beautiful.”

However, what started as a respectful visit quickly turned into controversy.

After Vance posted a photo of himself and his son inside the Sistine Chapel, people online were not happy. While some praised the photo and called it a “beautiful moment,” others were angry because taking pictures inside the Sistine Chapel is strictly not allowed. The rule exists to help protect the artwork and preserve the sacredness of the chapel.

One social media user wrote, “Taking this photo is like disrespecting God. Everyone knows photos aren’t allowed there.” Another person said, “Even I’m not Catholic, and I know better. He should know, especially as Vice President.” A third person added, “Every true Catholic knows you don’t take pictures in the Sistine Chapel. This just shows how some people think the rules don’t apply to them.”

These reactions are understandable. According to the official rules of the Vatican Museums, taking photos or recording videos inside the Sistine Chapel is strictly forbidden. Only non-flash photos are allowed in other areas of the museums—but not in the chapel itself.

JD Vance isn’t the only celebrity to be called out for breaking this rule. Actors like Russell Crowe and Jason Momoa have also faced criticism for posting photos taken inside the famous chapel.