JD Vance was one of Pope Francis’ last visitors on Easter Sunday

Vice President JD Vance had the unique opportunity to meet with Pope Francis just days before the beloved pontiff passed away at the age of 88. The meeting took place at the Vatican hotel where Pope Francis had been staying after being released from the hospital following a severe case of pneumonia. Vance, who had been hospitalized himself recently, exchanged Easter greetings with the pope in one of the reception rooms.

During their brief meeting, Pope Francis gifted Vance with three chocolate Easter eggs for his young children, as well as a Vatican tie and rosaries. Vance expressed his gratitude to the pope for inviting him for the meeting and for the hospitality shown to his family. He also shared his condolences upon learning of Pope Francis’ passing the following day.

The Vatican confirmed that the meeting between Vance and Pope Francis lasted only a few minutes and took place at the Domus Santa Marta. Vance’s motorcade entered Vatican City through a side gate while Easter Mass was being celebrated in St. Peter’s Square. Despite the pope delegating the Mass celebration to another cardinal, Vance was grateful for the opportunity to exchange Easter greetings with him.

Following his meeting with Pope Francis, Vance attended Easter Mass at St. Paul Outside the Walls with his family. As a recent convert to Catholicism, Vance has had differences with the pope on issues such as migration and the Trump administration’s policies. Despite these differences, Vance has expressed his commitment to defending his views and continuing to engage with the Catholic faith.

Vance also met with Vatican officials, including Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Archbishop Paul Gallagher, to discuss their shared religious faith, Catholicism in the United States, and global issues such as the plight of persecuted Christian communities and efforts to restore world peace. The Vatican noted that there was an exchange of opinions on various topics, including migrants and refugees.

As Vice President Vance reflects on his meeting with Pope Francis, he remembers the pope’s words of wisdom and grace. Despite their differences, Vance acknowledges the impact that Pope Francis had on millions of Christians worldwide and expresses his condolences for the loss of a great spiritual leader. The meeting with Pope Francis will be a cherished memory for Vance and a reminder of the importance of faith and compassion in today’s world.