“It is a sad time for Catholics around the world,” one source tells PEOPLE, noting that the first lady will “make the most” of her 55th birthday after properly mourning the late pontiff
Melania Trump will kick off her 55th birthday in Rome as she attends Pope Francis’ funeral.
The first lady and her husband, President Donald Trump, will be present at the late pontiff’s funeral on Saturday, April 26, which coincides with Melania’s birthday.
According to multiple sources, the first lady — who became the first practicing Catholic in the position since Jackie Kennedy — is religious in private and is “honored” to be attending the papal funeral, regardless of its timing.
“She respected the pope,” a social source tells PEOPLE. “It is a sad time for Catholics around the world, and the first lady is honored to go to the funeral.”
