VATICAN CITY — U.S. Vice President JD Vance met with Pope Francis on Easter Sunday to exchange festive greetings, amidst ongoing discussions about immigration policies. This brief interaction took place while Easter Mass was being held in St. Peter’s Square, with the 88-year-old Pope receiving Vance at his residence in the Vatican, Domus Santa Marta.
During this short meeting, the Pope presented Vance with three large chocolate Easter eggs meant for his young children, alongside a Vatican tie and rosaries. Vance, who has been a vocal supporter of conservative immigration policies, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to meet and wished the Pope well as he continues to recover from recent health issues.
“I know you have not been feeling great but it’s good to see you in better health,” Vance told Francis, who had recently battled pneumonia. As their meeting concluded, Vance added, “I pray for you every day. God bless you.”
Though their time together was brief—only 17 minutes—the Vice President later joined his family for Easter Mass at St. Paul Outside the Walls, a historic basilica in Rome.
Vance’s views on immigration have occasionally clashed with the Pope’s stance. Francis has strongly advocated for the dignity of migrants, critiquing policies that he believes devalue their rights. Just weeks before his hospitalization, the Pope expressed concern about mass deportation plans, urging compassion for those in need.
Despite acknowledging the Pope’s criticisms, Vance remains steadfast in his beliefs and has indicated a commitment to his position on immigration. At a recent National Catholic Prayer Breakfast, he referred to himself as a “baby Catholic,” recognizing the complexities of faith and the nuances in interpreting doctrine.
Prior to meeting the Pope, Vance also had discussions with Vatican officials about shared religious beliefs, the challenges faced by persecuted Christian communities, and President Trump’s efforts toward fostering global peace.
The Vatican has approached its relationship with the Trump administration cautiously, balancing diplomatic neutrality with its mission of humanitarian concern, particularly regarding the treatment of migrants and global conflicts.
