SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA CO. (WOLF) — The Bishop of Scranton is speaking out after a recent social media post by former President Donald Trump involving Pope Leo XIV, expressing disappointment and calling for unity and respect.
In a statement, the Most Rev. Joseph Bambera said he was “deeply saddened” by comments made by the president about the pope. He also took issue with an AI-generated image that had been shared and later deleted, which appeared to depict Trump in a religious context.
“I was deeply saddened to read comments posted by the President about the Holy Father, and likewise dismayed when seeing an AI-generated image, also posted by the President but then later deleted, that seemingly portrays him in the place of Jesus Christ.”
Trump acknowledged posting the picture, telling reporters he thought it was “me as a doctor”.
Bambera pointed to remarks made by Pope Leo XIV during a recent prayer vigil for peace, highlighting the pope’s message of unity and compassion.
“War divides; hope unites. Arrogance tramples upon others; love lifts up,” the pope said during the vigil.
The bishop said those words reflect the core teachings of the Gospel and stand in contrast to rhetoric that he believes fosters division.
Bambera added that he is praying for both leaders — asking that Trump be guided by “wisdom, humility and a sincere pursuit of peace,” and that Pope Leo XIV remain strong in his efforts to promote justice and reconciliation.
He concluded his statement with a message drawn from scripture: “Blessed are the peacemakers.”
The controversy comes amid ongoing tensions between political figures and religious leaders, as public discourse continues to intersect with faith and social issues.