Biden poses for photo with mourners, after arriving to Pope Francis funeral with wife Jill Biden

Former President Joe Biden and his wife Jill Biden made their way to Saint Peter’s Square in Vatican City on Saturday morning to attend Pope Francis’ funeral. The 82-year-old, who had met Pope Francis on three separate occasions during his time as vice president, carefully descended the stairs with the assistance of his wife and a priest.

Unlike President Donald Trump, the Bidens were seated further back in the foreign dignitaries section as they are not current heads of state. Biden, who was the second Roman Catholic to serve as president after John F. Kennedy, has had a longstanding relationship with Pope Francis. He led the US delegation to the pontiff’s inauguration in 2013 and last met with him during a trip to Italy for the G7 summit in 2024.

During the funeral service, Biden was seen taking a selfie with another mourner, showcasing a more personal and light-hearted moment amidst the solemn occasion. In a tribute to Pope Francis following his passing, Biden praised the pontiff for being a transformative and inclusive leader who worked towards promoting equity and ending poverty and suffering worldwide.

“He was unlike any who came before him,” Biden said. “Pope Francis will be remembered as one of the most consequential leaders of our time and I am better for having known him. He made all feel welcome and seen by the Church. He promoted equity and an end to poverty and suffering across the globe. And above all, he was a Pope for everyone. He was the People’s Pope – a light of faith, hope, and love.”

The Bidens’ presence at the funeral of Pope Francis not only reflects their deep respect for the pontiff but also highlights the strong bond between the former president and the Catholic Church leader. Their attendance at such a significant event further solidifies the importance of diplomacy, unity, and mutual respect among world leaders.