US Vice President JD Vance has paid tribute to Pope Francis, describing him as a “great Christian pastor” after his passing on Easter Monday. Vance met with Pope Francis on Easter Sunday, just hours before his death, and spoke highly of the late pontiff. Despite their public disagreements on policy issues, including immigration, Vance chose not to politicize the Pope’s death, emphasizing his broader impact on the global Catholic community of over a billion people.
Vance described his meeting with Pope Francis as a “huge blessing” and shared that the Pope gifted his children with chocolate Easter eggs, a Vatican tie, and rosaries. Reflecting on the encounter, Vance expressed gratitude for the opportunity to shake hands with the Pope and pray for him.
Vance extended condolences to Catholics globally, particularly in the United States, saying, “We are deeply saddened. Our condolences go out to Catholics around the world, but especially to those at home who love and honor the Holy Father.” When asked about the next papal conclave, Vance stated he would pray for the cardinals’ wisdom in choosing the next Pope, refraining from influencing their decision ¹.
Pope Francis’s funeral was held on Saturday, April 26, at 10:00 a.m. in St. Peter’s Square. Vance’s praise for the late Pope highlights the complex relationship between the US government and the Vatican, particularly on issues like immigration. The Pope’s legacy will likely continue to shape the Catholic Church’s stance on key issues ².