Vatican enforces brand new rule after ‘outrageous’ behaviour at Pope Francis’ body

For the first time in history, the Vatican has enforced a brand new rule following “outrageous” and “disgusting” behaviour from those visiting the body of the late Pope Francis before his funeral this weekend.

On Monday, on Easter weekend, no less, the Vatican announced the sad passing of Pope Francis.

“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow, I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning (local time), the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church,” his Eminence, Cardinal Farrell, said in a statement.

“He taught us to live the values ​​of the Gospel with fidelity, courage and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised. With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God.”

People have since flocked to Rome, Italy, to pay their respects, but a “disgusting” few have sparked criticism from officials ahead of Pope Francis’ funeral on Saturday.

Pope Francis is on display in St Peter’s Basilica until the funeral

Social media users are receiving backlash for posting smiling selfies with Pope Francis' body in his open casket.

Some people even tried using selfie sticks but were told to put them away.

"What did surprise me is the fact that earlier we were told no photos in the Sistine… pic.twitter.com/ZWWyW8Yu8G

— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) April 24, 2025

Following the various arcane rites and rituals, the body of Pope Francis was laid to rest in an open casket in St Peter’s Basilica. Thousands have been visiting his resting place, but now, the ill intentions of a minority have forced the Vatican to impose a brand new rule: No Selfies. Though Vatican officials had not banned the taking of photos, guards had stopped people from taking pictures.

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Twitter, TikTok and Instagram have been flooded with people taking selfies with the late Pope’s body, usually with a beaming smile on their face and a caption referencing how sad they are. I don’t tend to take selfies with the recently deceased when I’m sad, but that’s just me.

Those who attended the display have since spoken to the MailOnline about people taking selfies, and they’re not pleased.

“What did surprise me is the fact that earlier we were told no photos in the Sistine Chapel, and here people were getting their phone out and doing selfies with the coffin,” one lady from Wales told the publication. “I did think that was a bit in poor taste, and I’m surprised no one stopped them.”

“I said to someone in the queue ‘I wonder what Pope Francis would make of all this?’ and they said, ‘He would say don’t waste your time here, go and do something for people less fortunate’. He was probably right,” her husband added.

A source at the Vatican also urged people to consider what they’re doing when paying their respects, explaining: “It would be good if people could try and remember where they are and have a little respect, but there’s little else that can be done.”

But now, following an increase in the disrespectful trend, people are reportedly banned from getting within 30 feet of the Pope’s body if they have their phone.

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Featured image credit: Tom Nicholson/Shutterstock