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JD Vance Pays Tribute to Pope Francis Following Pontiff’s Death After Easter Meeting
In a moving expression of respect, Senator JD Vance conveyed his condolences for Pope Francis following the 88-year-old pontiff’s passing. The news of the Pope’s death came shortly after Vance and the religious leader met on Easter Sunday at the Vatican. This meeting, though brief, occurred just hours before the announcement of the Pope’s demise, sparking global reactions and reflections on his legacy. Vance’s tribute highlights the intersection of faith and global leadership, underscoring the Pope’s widespread influence.
Vance Expresses Grief over Pope Francis’s Passing
“I just learned of the death of Pope Francis. My heart is with the millions of Christians globally who admired him,” Vance stated on X (formerly Twitter).
He further added context to his message, mentioning his recent encounter with the pontiff: “I was privileged to see him yesterday, even though it was evident he was unwell. I will always remember his profoundly moving homily from the early period of the COVID pandemic. It was truly beautiful. May God grant rest to his soul,” he wrote, including a link to the aforementioned sermon.
Pope Francis’s Demise Follows Brief Meeting with Vance
The Pope’s death comes after a prolonged illness, specifically double pneumonia. This occurred less than 24 hours after what the Vatican described as a “short” interaction with JD Vance, who converted to Catholicism in 2019. The timing of the Pope’s passing, so soon after meeting with a prominent political figure, has drawn attention and amplified discussions surrounding his final days and engagements.
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Vatican Encounter and Potential Policy Differences
During his visit to the Vatican, the Vice President primarily engaged with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican secretary of state, and Archbishop Peter Gallagher, the foreign minister. This arrangement may reflect past tensions, stemming from the Pope’s vocal disapproval of the Trump Administration’s immigration policies. The pontiff had previously cautioned against these policies, asserting they compromised the dignity of migrants.
Past Disagreements on Immigration Policy
Pope Francis had a history of differing views with previous administrations, notably expressing strong reservations about certain US policies. In February, he addressed a letter to US bishops criticizing the Trump administration’s approach to immigration as a “major crisis.”
Pope’s Letter Condemning Deportation Policies
In his letter, the Pope articulated his concerns:
- Deporting individuals fleeing extreme poverty
- Deporting individuals fleeing insecurity and exploitation
- Deporting individuals fleeing persecution
- Deporting individuals fleeing environmental degradation
He stated such deportations “damages the dignity of many men and women, and of entire families, and places them in a state of particular vulnerability and defenselessness.”
A Moment of Cordiality Despite Policy Differences
Despite differing viewpoints on policy matters, reports indicate a cordial exchange between Vance and Pope Francis during their meeting. In a gesture of goodwill, the Holy Father presented Vance with three chocolate Easter eggs intended as gifts for his children, suggesting a personal warmth that transcended political or ideological disagreements.