Two weeks ago on Easter Monday, Pope Francis, who had served as pope since 2013, passed away. The deeply admired spiritual leader left an irrevocable imprint on both the Church and globe. His life and legacy touched thousands and the shockwaves of his love resonated beyond the confines of the Vatican.
On Friday 25th of April, the Eight Page wrote a satire titled “Phillipian Satire: JD Vance’s “Pretty Crazy” Last Conversation With The Pope” covering a fictional conversation between Pope Francis and J.D. Vance on Easter Sunday, the day before his passing.
The piece left me gutted and indignant. I was stunned at two things: The article portrayed Pope Francis’s life and legacy in an incredibly demeaning fashion. His mission was condensed into “helping out the poor and the less fortunate…Immigrants and gay people as well.” Although the article’s intention article laid in antagonizing JD Vance, the byproduct was a mockery of Pope Francis.
Pope Francis had a deep commitment to upholding the life and dignity of all, regardless of their background. Pictured frequently blessing children with cancer, inviting the homeless to his birthday brunches, and washing prisoner’s feet, Pope Francis led with an unparalleled kindness and humility. Millions are currently mourning him. His pureness of heart, jubilant smile and progressive policies brought hope to believers and non-believers alike. He didn’t deserve this type of send off, a remark that undermined the importance of his service.
Moreover, the publication’s timing was in incredibly poor taste, being released even before Pope Francis was buried; his funeral was scheduled for the following day. He had not yet been laid to rest before this skit appeared on the 8th page.
The death of a Pope has never been the subject of Phillipian comedy the week of his death, even though it is not a part of its policy. Moreover, the article contradicts the Phillipian’s charter. According to their charter, the Phillipian adheres to having “staff members… learn and observe the legal and ethical responsibilities expected of them as practicing journalists.”
While we understand the role that satire plays in journalism and that this was a “non-serious” offhand joke, I would like to invite the members of the Phillipian staff, and members of the Andover community to engage in serious reflection on how this simple joke might have impacted the people who were affected by this loss.
This piece’s content was insensitive and inconsiderate of the rawness associated with a loss. Let’s allow the departed to rest unperturbed. And in his honour, let’s commemorate Pope Francis with the love and compassion he boundlessly gave the world.
Gabriele De Carlo ’26 & Mayen Etuk ‘26
Catholic Student Fellowship Co-Presidents
