Vatican- In a twist of fate that now feels both providential and bittersweet, US Vice-President JD Vance was among the last global leaders to meet Pope Francis before the pontiff’s death on Monday morning.
The encounter, which took place on Easter Sunday, was deeply personal for Vance—both as a Catholic convert and as a politician navigating the complex relationship between the Vatican and Washington.
Today I met with the Holy Father Pope Francis. I am grateful for his invitation to meet, and I pray for his good health.Happy Easter!
The 88-year-old Pope Francis, known for his progressive views and outspoken advocacy for migrants and the marginalized, passed away at 07:35 local time in Rome, just hours after he appeared publicly in St. Peter’s Square to deliver his Easter blessings.
Though it wasn’t on the official itinerary, Vance’s team had quietly hoped for even a brief audience with the Pope during his diplomatic trip to Rome.
Their wish came true: a 15-minute private meeting on Easter Sunday—just one day before the Pope’s passing.
“My heart goes out to the millions of Christians all over the world who loved him,” Vance shared in a heartfelt statement on X (formerly Twitter), noting the Pope looked visibly unwell during their meeting.
Still, Vance expressed gratitude for the moment, describing the hospitality extended to his family by the Vatican as deeply meaningful.
Vance’s office confirmed that the Sunday visit followed “cordial talks” the day before, where both parties affirmed shared values and a mutual commitment to religious freedom—language echoed in a Vatican statement that highlighted the strength of bilateral ties.
Between Faith and Friction: Vance and Francis
It’s no secret that Pope Francis and Donald Trump, Vance’s political ally, didn’t always see eye to eye.
From immigration to environmental policy, the late pontiff was vocal in his disapproval of Trump’s more hardline stances—famously calling the former president’s border wall vision “not Christian.” Recently, Francis referred to Trump’s immigration proposals as “an ugly thing” and “a disgrace.”
It was an honor to meet with Pope Francis, Prime Minister Meloni, and Church officials in Italy this weekend. Visiting Rome with my family during Holy Week was an incredible experience.
Vance, who converted to Catholicism in 2019, has often walked a tightrope between defending conservative policies and acknowledging the moral depth of Francis’ teachings.
“There are things about the faith that I don’t know,” Vance once admitted at the National Catholic Prayer Breakfast, calling himself a “baby Catholic.”
Yet in this moment of mourning, the vice-president set aside politics to share his spiritual reverence. He even posted a link to his favorite homily from the Pope—a March 2020 message on fear and faith delivered during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, a speech that resonated globally for its calm and courage in uncertain times.
Though their views didn’t always align, Vance’s tribute was deeply respectful—recognizing Francis as a moral compass for millions.
And while the White House issued a more muted statement—“Rest in Peace, Pope Francis”—Vance’s words carried the weight of personal connection.
The Pope’s passing marks the end of an era. As the first Latin American pope and a Jesuit, Francis brought a refreshing blend of humility, reform, and resilience to the papacy.
He didn’t just preach about justice and compassion—he lived it, often placing himself at odds with tradition to uplift the marginalized.
Breaking NewsPope Francis passed away peacefully at the age of 88 on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta. #EasterMonday
And in those final moments of his public life, he chose to appear before his people—his voice steady, his presence unwavering.
A Goodbye Rooted in Faith
For JD Vance, the Easter Sunday meeting wasn’t just a diplomatic gesture—it was a profound moment of spiritual resonance.
As he returns to the U.S. from a trip that unexpectedly became historic, the vice-president leaves behind a memory shared by few: a farewell to a Pope whose life and leadership transcended the pulpit and touched politics, prayer, and people alike.
