In an unexpected twist of fate, U.S. Vice President JD Vance recently became one of the last people to meet Pope Francis before the pontiff's passing at age 88. Vance, who described the experience as "pretty crazy," reflected on the visit which occurred during his international trip to India, stopping in Rome to coincide with Holy Week celebrations.
The meeting with Pope Francis took place on Sunday at the Casa Santa Marta, the Pope's residence at Vatican City, soon after the pontiff had delivered his Easter blessing in St. Peter's Square. What Vance and many others did not anticipate was that this would be one of Pope Francis's final public appearances, given his long battle with double pneumonia. The Pope greeted visitors from a wheelchair, a testament to his enduring commitment to his followers despite his deteriorating health.
During their brief encounter, Pope Francis extended his hospitality by gifting Vance with a Vatican tie, large chocolate Easter eggs for Vance’s children, and rosaries for him and his family. A moment captured on video shows Vance expressing relief at seeing the pontiff looking better, even amid illness. The following day, to widespread mourning, Pope Francis passed away, marking the end of an era for the Vatican and its global congregation.
Vance, a devout Catholic who converted in 2019, later reflected on the significance of his meeting with a figure who had such a profound impact on numerous lives. He remarked on the humility and reach of Pope Francis, who had even taken the opportunity to comment critically on U.S. policies in previous correspondence, focusing specifically on immigration enforcement under the Trump administration. Pope Francis's letter had notably singled out Vance regarding his defense of these deportation measures, underscoring the pontiff's willingness to engage with political leaders on ethical grounds.
In addition to meeting Pope Francis, Vice President Vance held discussions with key Vatican officials, including Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Archbishop Paul Gallagher, the foreign minister. The dialogue centered on global geopolitical tensions, particularly concerning migration and humanitarian crises. Both parties expressed hopes for continued cooperation between the Catholic Church and the United States, especially in aiding the vulnerable and marginalized.
As the world prepares for the Pope’s funeral, which will see prominent figures such as former President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump in attendance, Vance’s bittersweet encounter with the late pontiff serves as a poignant reminder of the Pope's far-reaching influence and enduring legacy of compassion and advocacy for the marginalized. The intersections of faith and politics become even more pronounced as leaders honor a man who tirelessly championed peace, equity, and interfaith dialogue until his last days.