A seemingly touching father-son moment between Vice President JD Vance and his young son inside the iconic Sistine Chapel has unexpectedly ignited controversy online, stirring debate over a long-standing rule at one of the Vatican’s most sacred sites.

The image, originally posted by conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, swiftly went viral, depicting Vance and his son quietly admiring Michelangelo’s legendary frescoed ceiling. Captured by White House photographer Emily Higgins, the photo was shared with the caption: “An epic shot of Vice President JD Vance and his son inside the Sistine Chapel. What an incredible way to spend Easter weekend.”

However, what started as a serene snapshot quickly sparked backlash across social media, with users pointing out that photography inside the Sistine Chapel is strictly prohibited. Critics flooded the comment sections, expressing frustration over what they saw as blatant disregard for established rules.

“Taking photos inside the chapel is strictly prohibited. Why would anyone do that? What’s the difference?” one user questioned. Another remarked sharply, “It is forbidden to take photos in the Sistine Chapel. The Church considers it greatly disrespectful.”

Several others chimed in, underscoring the breach of protocol: “You’re fortunate you were able to take that photo. When we visited, photography was strictly banned,” one person noted. “Not allowed to take photos in the Sistine Chapel. Even in something so basic, they think the rules don’t apply to them,” another added pointedly.

According to the official guidelines published by the Vatican Museums, photography and filming of any kind within the Sistine Chapel are strictly prohibited, a policy enforced rigorously to protect the delicate artwork and maintain the chapel’s sanctity. The museum guidelines clearly state, “In the Sistine Chapel, it is forbidden to take photographs or films with any type of electronic equipment.”

Yet, despite the stringent rules, there have been exceptions granted for prominent figures in the past. Notably, former First Lady Michelle Obama was photographed inside the chapel during a private tour in 2009, suggesting precedent for special permissions during official visits.

Vice President Vance’s Vatican visit was part of a significant Easter weekend for him and his family. Alongside his wife, Second Lady Usha Vance, and their three children—Ewan, Vivek, and Mirabel—Vance was present during one of Pope Francis’s final public appearances. On Easter Sunday, the day before the Pope’s death, Vance met with the visibly frail pontiff, exchanging greetings and receiving gifts intended for his children.

Following the Pope’s passing on Easter Monday, Vance expressed heartfelt condolences online: “I just learned of the passing of Pope Francis. My heart goes out to the millions of Christians all over the world who loved him. I was happy to see him yesterday, though he was obviously very ill.”

The Pope’s official cause of death was confirmed as a cerebral stroke, leading to coma and irreversible heart failure. His passing sparked widespread mourning, as pilgrims gathered solemnly in St. Peter’s Square to honor the leader who had profoundly shaped a decade of Catholic history.

As the debate over the Vice President’s Sistine Chapel photo continues online, it highlights the complex balance between diplomatic privileges and reverence for historical, religious traditions.