“It was an honor to join so many of the faithful.” That’s how Vice President JD Vance described his experience at the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV, a deeply symbolic moment for both the United States and the global Catholic Church.
But while Vance and his wife Usha Vance appeared serene and respectful throughout the Vatican ceremony, a brief 17-second video clip featuring the couple’s interaction with the pope sparked unexpected conversation online, much of it centered not on JD, but on Usha herself.
A Semi Handshake, a Shoulder Pat, and a Wave of Online Reactions
Following the Mass, a short clip showed JD Vance greeting Pope Leo with a handshake and soft-spoken comment. The pope nodded politely. As Vance turned to leave, he gently placed a hand on the pope’s shoulder, an understated gesture that immediately caught fire online.
But before that the Pope gave Usha a handshake without even looking at her eyes.
Some interpreted it as warm and human; others labeled it too informal for such a sacred occasion.
“That was clearly a respectful moment. People are reading too much into it,” one user wrote.
Another commented, “The body language looked fine. Just diplomacy in motion.”
Spotlight on Usha: A Graceful Presence Amid Viral Speculation
While the initial wave of commentary focused on JD, a second wave quickly shifted focus to Usha Vance, based on an alternate angle of the same moment.
“It looked like the pope disregarded Mrs. Vance. Shaking hands and looking elsewhere. Nope. Not feeling it,” one commenter said.
Still, others rose to her defense, applauding her elegance and composure during an unpredictable and closely watched event.
“Usha Vance looked dignified and composed throughout. People are projecting way too much onto a 17-second clip.”
“She handled it with quiet strength. That’s how diplomacy works.”
Observers noted that Usha appeared gracious, grounded, and fully engaged across the day’s events, an embodiment of quiet confidence in a high-stakes diplomatic setting.
A Personal Glimpse: Faith, Family, and Devotion
Later that day, the Vice President shared images from the Mass, including a tender moment with Usha as the couple exchanged a kiss during the ceremony.
“It was an honor to join so many of the faithful,” Vance wrote on social media.
He also posted a solemn tribute from the tomb of Pope Francis, writing:
“He was beloved by many Catholics around the world, and I hope you will join me in praying for the repose of his soul.”
That same afternoon, Vance and Usha joined Secretary Marco Rubio for a diplomatic meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, reaffirming the United States’ commitment to ending the war and supporting peace-building efforts.
Pope Leo’s First Message: “Never Again War”
While social media dissected handshakes and glances, the true heart of the day belonged to Pope Leo XIV. From the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, he addressed over 100,000 people with a direct appeal:
“Never again war.”
The pope called for ceasefires, the release of hostages, and immediate humanitarian efforts in Ukraine and Gaza. He urged world leaders to move beyond politics and act in defense of the vulnerable.
A Pope with Principles, and a Voice for Justice
Even before his election, Pope Leo XIV was known for his outspoken moral leadership. He had previously voiced concerns about immigration policy and inequality, including in the U.S.
While some resurfaced social media posts noted past disagreements with Vance’s political framing, sources close to the Vatican say Leo’s focus is spiritual, not personal.
“He’s not here for political fights,” said one aide. “He wants unity through justice, and he’s always believed in speaking plainly.”
A Moment That Reflects More Than It Reveals
In the end, the 17-second clip told only part of the story. For those present at the Mass, and for those watching from afar, the day was about faith, global leadership, and humility in service.
JD and Usha Vance represented the United States with dignity in one of the world’s most sacred spaces. And though a single moment sparked debate, the deeper story was one of unity and reverence, the kind that rarely goes viral, but always matters.
