US Vice President JD Vance Reflects on Last Meeting with Pope Francis A Day Before His Death

US Vice President JD Vance Recalls Final Meeting with Pope Francis a Day Before His Passing
Pope Francis had a brief encounter with US Vice President JD Vance on Easter Sunday, just one day before he passed away.
The 88-year-old pontiff died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta residence.
JD Vance, who was in Rome for diplomatic meetings over the Easter weekend, visited Pope Francis at the Domus Santa Marta – the Vatican hotel where the Pope stayed.
During their short meeting, the two exchanged Easter greetings, marking the Pope’s last official encounter.
“I know you haven’t been feeling well, but it’s nice to see you in better health. Thank you for meeting with me,” Vance told the pontiff.
According to the Vatican, Pope Francis gave the Catholic vice president three large chocolate Easter eggs for his children, along with a Vatican tie and rosaries.
As their meeting concluded, Vance bid farewell to Pope Francis, saying, “I pray for you every day. God bless you.”
Tribute Following Pope Francis’ Death Announcement
After the announcement of Pope Francis’ passing, JD Vance posted a heartfelt tribute on X.
“I just found out about Pope Francis’ passing. My thoughts are with the millions of Christians worldwide who admired him. Though he was visibly unwell when I saw him yesterday, I will always remember the inspiring homily he delivered in the early days of COVID. It was truly beautiful. May his soul rest in peace.”
Tensions Over Migration Policy
Despite past tensions over the Trump administration’s proposed migrant deportation plans, Pope Francis and JD Vance had a brief Easter meeting.
Pope Francis, a staunch advocate for migrants and refugees, had criticized such policies in the past.
Prior to his hospitalization in February, the Pope expressed concerns about mass deportations, warning that they could compromise migrants’ dignity. In a message to U.S. bishops, he indirectly countered Vice President Vance’s view that Catholic teachings supported the administration’s immigration policies.
Vance has maintained his stance despite the Pope’s remarks.
However, speaking at the National Catholic Prayer Breakfast on February 28, JD Vance referred to himself as a “novice Catholic” and acknowledged there are aspects of the faith he is still learning about.