People think Pope Leo made ‘hilarious’

Pope Leo XIV was inaugurated as the 267th Pope on Sunday, May 18, following a two-day conclave at the Vatican. The ceremony, held at St. Peter’s Square, marked his official appointment as Pope Francis’s successor. During the event, he received the Ring of the Fisherman and the pallium, symbolizing his papal authority. Attendees included Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, US Vice President JD Vance, and others. Despite past criticisms from both Pope Leo and Vance, the two briefly shook hands during the procession line. However, Vance faced criticism for touching the Pope’s arm, which some deemed inappropriate.

Social media reactions varied, with some suggesting Pope Leo subtly “shooed” Vance and his wife away, while others argued it was a simple handshake. Vance has previously faced backlash for breaking protocol during a visit to the Sistine Chapel by taking photos, which is strictly prohibited to protect the artwork. The incident occurred just a month after his meeting with Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 at age 88.