Max Maca
BBC News
US President Donald Trump has faced criticism from many Catholics after releasing an artificial intelligence-generated photo of himself as the Pope.
The photo, shared by the official White House social media accounts, emerged as Catholics mourn the death of Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, and prepare to elect a new one.
The New York State Catholic Conference accused Trump of mocking religion.
The announcement comes a few days after Trump joked with reporters that he would like to be pope.
Trump is not the first president to be accused of mocking the Catholic faith.
Former US President Joe Biden sparked outrage a year ago when he crossed himself at an abortion access rally in Tampa, Florida.
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Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni declined to answer questions about Trump's announcement during a briefing with reporters on Saturday.
The Vatican is preparing to host a conclave to choose Francis' successor, which begins on Wednesday.
In the picture Trump posted Friday night, he is wearing a white robe and pointed mitre, traditionally worn by a bishop.
He has a large cross around his neck and is holding his finger in the air, with a solemn expression on his face.
The New York State Catholic Conference represents the bishops in New York.
"There is nothing clever or funny about this picture, Mr. President," the group wrote.
"We have just buried our beloved Pope Francis, and the cardinals will soon enter into a solemn conclave to elect a new successor to Saint Peter. Don't mock us," they criticized the photo on X.
Left-wing former Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi also condemned Trump's announcement.
"This is a photograph that insults believers, insults institutions and shows that the leader of the right-wing world enjoys playing the clown," Renzi wrote in Italian on X.
But the White House has rejected any suggestion that the Republican president is mocking the papacy.
"President Trump flew to Italy to pay his respects to Pope Francis and attend his funeral, and he has been a staunch supporter of Catholics and religious freedom," spokeswoman Caroline Leavitt said.
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