• Cardinal Dolan criticizes Trump’s AI pope video, calling it inappropriate during a sacred time for the Church.
• The New York State Catholic Conference also criticized the image, joining Cardinal Dolan in urging Trump not to mock Catholic traditions.
• As the conclave begins, Dolan emphasized prayer, humility, and the need for a pope who reflects the spirit of Jesus, and Cardinal Dolan criticizes actions that distract from this solemn process.

Cardinal Timothy Dolan did not stay silent after Donald Trump shared an AI-generated video/image of himself dressed as the Pope. Dolan, the Archbishop of New York, called the image inappropriate and troubling. Cardinal Dolan criticizes such distractions while he is currently in Rome for the conclave, the private gathering where cardinals choose the next pope. Dolan told CBS News, “It wasn’t good,” when asked about the AI picture. He added, “I hope he didn’t have anything to do with it,” referring to Trump. His words reflected disappointment and concern, especially as the Catholic Church prepares for a new chapter.

Dolan reminded people of the solemn mood in the Church. The funeral of Pope Francis had just taken place. Now, the cardinals must come together to select a new leader for the world’s 1.3 billion Catholics. Instead of peace and respect, Trump’s image brought confusion and mockery. For Dolan, other Catholic leaders echoed his feelings as Cardinal Dolan criticizes those jokes at such sacred moments where reverence is demanded.

New York Catholic Conference also responds with firm message

The New York State Catholic Conference also reacted strongly to the image. They released a public statement aimed directly at Trump. “There is nothing clever or funny about this image, Mr. President,” they wrote on social media. They reminded Trump and the public that the Catholic Church had just buried Pope Francis. They said the image disrespected the Church and mocked a sacred moment.

Their message was clear and emotional. “The cardinals are about to enter a solemn conclave to elect a new successor of St. Peter. Do not mock us.” These words show how deeply offended many Catholics felt. The Church takes the role of the pope seriously. It is a spiritual position, not a role for political jokes or internet memes.

Trump made light of the situation with reporters

Despite the backlash, Trump joked about becoming pope. Speaking to reporters outside the White House, he said, “That would be my No. 1 choice.” He smiled and laughed. He then mentioned Cardinal Dolan by name. “We have a cardinal that happens to be out of a place called New York who’s very good,” Trump said. “We’ll see what happens.” His comments seemed lighthearted, but many Catholics saw them as disrespectful, especially considering Cardinal Dolan criticizes Trump’s attitude.

Instead of showing humility or understanding, Trump continued to make himself the center of attention. Catholic leaders felt he crossed a line. This was not a time for jokes. It was a time for reflection, prayer, and unity within the Church.

Dolan turns focus back to faith and tradition

Cardinal Dolan kept his focus on faith. On Sunday, he led Mass at a simple Roman church just outside Vatican City. That church, Our Lady of Guadalupe, serves a community of Mexican immigrants. Dolan asked the congregation to pray for him and for all the cardinals preparing to enter the conclave. He spoke in Italian and showed humility.

Dolan explained how the conclave works. Each cardinal speaks for eight to ten minutes. They introduce themselves, describe their dioceses and also share their hopes and challenges. “They speak beautifully,and help us understand the universal Church.” He also spoke about Pope Francis with deep respect, calling him a blessing.

The Church looks for a pope who reflects Christ

When asked what kind of pope the Church needs, Dolan gave a simple answer. “Someone like Jesus.” He remembered the first time Pope Francis spoke to the cardinals. “He spoke so beautifully and simply,” Dolan said. Trump sat next to the Archbishop of Vienna, Christoph Schönborn. “He had tears in his eyes. He said, ‘He speaks like Jesus.’ I said, ‘That’s the job description.’”

Dolan knows the weight of the decision ahead. This is not his first time in the conclave. He feels more experienced now, but still humbled by the task. When someone asked about his chances of becoming pope, Dolan joked, “Didn’t I warn you what would happen after they legalized marijuana?” The crowd laughed, but his message stayed serious. He wants a leader who brings humility, wisdom, and joy.

Catholics ask for respect during this sacred time

Many Catholic leaders and everyday believers feel hurt by Trump’s actions. They do not want politics to invade their sacred traditions. The AI image and video may entertain some online, but for Catholics, it disrespects a holy time. They ask for dignity and focus. The conclave is not about celebrities or internet fame. It is about choosing a spiritual leader who will guide the Church with compassion.