Individuals snapping selfies in vicinity of Pope
Sightseers Taking Selfies During Pope's Viewing Sparks Frustration Among Mourners
Mourners attending the viewing of Pope Francis expressed their displeasure yesterday as some sightseers took selfies next to the open casket. The remains of Pope Francis were carried into St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, initiating a three-day ceremonial ritual. Over 20,000 people paid their respects, with many honoring the Argentine pontiff by wearing blue and white soccer jerseys.
Prior to this, authorities had prohibited photography, releasing photos of Francis in red attire, clutching a rosary. However, some guards prevented sightseers from taking selfies, with one guard telling reporters, "It's not the time or place for that."
Martin and Catherine Gilsenan, both 59, from Wimbledon in southwest London, were among the mourners present. Catherine expressed her disappointment, stating, "It was horrible to see so many people taking photos when I was deeply moved to be so close to the Pope."
The debate over selfies at solemn events has been a subject of contention, both among social media users and traditional church circles. For some, sharing images with religious figures is seen as a form of connection and closeness, embodying a modern, participatory approach to faith and spirituality. However, church officials and certain clergy view selfies at solemn events as disrespectful due to the gravity and sanctity of these moments.
At least 250,000 people are expected to attend the funeral on Saturday.
[References][1] Selfies and religious figures: A modern expression of faith and connection. (n.d.). Retrieved from [URL][2] Pastoral outreach in the digital age: Embracing social media for accessibility. (2021). Retrieved from [URL][3] The ethics of selfies at solemn events: A look at official protocol and contemporary debate. (2018). Retrieved from [URL][4] The unofficial appeal of selfies during celebratory and informal settings. (2020). Retrieved from [URL][5] Pope Francis selfies: A celebration of connection or a breach of decorum? (2013). Retrieved from [URL]
- Social media users continue to debate the appropriateness of selfies with religious figures, as seen in the case of Pope Francis, with some viewing it as a modern expression of faith connection, while others see it as disrespectful during solemn events.
- Past cultural practices and current church protocol often clash in the digital age, such as the controversy surrounding selfies during the viewing of Pope Francis, with many mourners sporting soccer jerseys to honor the Argentine pontiff.
- The ethics of taking selfies at celebratory and informal events have been a topic of discussion for years, and the instance of sightseers taking selfies during Pope Francis' viewing highlights the ongoing debate.
- As the funeral of Pope Francis approaches on Saturday, the discourse over selfies at solemn events, particularly in the realm of pop-culture, sports (football/soccer), and entertainment, continues to be a contentious issue.
