A recent diplomatic visit to the Vatican has sparked discussion about proper etiquette when meeting the pontiff, as U.S. Vice President JD Vance faces criticism for apparent deviations from traditional protocol during his meeting with newly elected Pope Leo XIV.
The encounter, which took place on Sunday, May 18, comes amid what some observers characterize as an already complex relationship between the American official and the first U.S.-born pontiff in Catholic history. The 69-year-old Pope Leo, who was elevated to the papacy on May 8, previously shared social media content critical of various policies associated with the current administration, particularly regarding immigration and refugee treatment.
In one notable instance before his papal election, the Chicago native reportedly shared an article challenging Vance’s interpretation of a “Christian concept.” When asked about these past differences, Vance had stated he tries “not to play the politicization of the Pope game,” according to reporting by The Independent. The Vice President added, “I’m sure [Pope Leo] is going to say a lot of things that I love. I’m sure he’ll say some things that I disagree with, but I’ll continue to pray for him and the Church despite it all and through it all.”
Despite these diplomatic comments, Vance’s meeting with the pontiff has drawn scrutiny for what many consider a breach of Vatican protocol. After an initial respectful handshake and brief exchange of words, the Vice President was observed extending his arm to pat Pope Leo’s elbow – a gesture that has prompted significant reaction on social media platforms.
Critics have characterized the interaction as overly familiar and inappropriate for such a formal diplomatic setting. One commentator described it as “almost condescending” and resembling “patting a puppy’s head before moving along.” Another wrote, “J.D. Vance embarrassed himself again at the Vatican when he attempted to pat Pope Leo XIV on the shoulder like a drinking buddy in St. Peter’s Basilica after the papal inauguration mass.”
According to etiquette guidelines reported by MetroWest, meetings with the pope follow specific protocols similar to those for royal encounters. These include wearing conservative attire (suits and ties for men, knee-length dresses or suits for women), waiting to be introduced, speaking only when addressed, using the formal title “Your Holiness,” and refraining from physical contact beyond invited gestures such as handshakes or the traditional kissing of the papal ring.
“Why on earth @JDVance is touching the Pope by his shoulder? It’s an awful breach of protocol,” one social media user commented. “His manners are beyond awful.”
This incident follows another controversial Vatican visit by Vance in April, when he met with the late Pope Francis shortly before the pontiff’s death at age 88. During that visit, the Vice President reportedly posted images from inside the Sistine Chapel, despite strict prohibitions against photography and electronic equipment in the sacred space famous for Michelangelo’s religious artwork and its role in papal elections.
These consecutive incidents have prompted discussion about diplomatic protocols and cultural sensitivities in international relations, particularly those involving religious institutions with centuries of established traditions.