In a significant diplomatic event, Vice President Vance and Second Lady Usha Vance had the opportunity to meet with Pope Leo XIV during the pontiff's inauguration mass held in Vatican City on Sunday. This meeting marks a notable moment in U.S.-Vatican relations, highlighting the ongoing dialogue between political and religious leaders.
Before departing from the iconic St. Peter's Square, Vice President Vance and Usha Vance made a point to greet Pope Leo XIV. According to a spokesperson for the Vice President, the handshake between Vance and the first American pope included a brief conversation that lasted for several seconds. Usha Vance, present for the occasion, wore a striking black lace veil, adhering to traditional customs while meeting the pontiff.
Vice President Vance took charge of the U.S. delegation attending the inauguration mass, accompanied by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and his wife, Jeanette Rubio. This delegation reflects the importance of the occasion and the United States' relationship with the Vatican, especially in light of current global issues.
Notably, Vice President Vance converted to Catholicism in 2019, marking a personal milestone in his faith journey. Just last month, he had met with Pope Francis shortly before the pope’s passing, further emphasizing his engagement with the Catholic Church's leadership.
The inauguration mass also saw the attendance of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who greeted Pope Leo XIV following the ceremony. The Pope has recently extended an invitation to facilitate peace talks between leaders from Russia and Ukraine at the Vatican, underscoring the Church's role in global diplomacy amidst ongoing conflicts.
The meeting between Vice President Vance and Pope Leo XIV is particularly noteworthy due to the pope's previous criticisms of Vance's stance on immigration. In February, Pope Leo XIV shared an opinion article on social media that critiqued Vance’s views, titled “JD Vance is wrong: Jesus doesn’t ask us to rank our love for others.” Another article shared by the pope discussed Vance's interpretation of Catholic teachings on immigration, highlighting the tensions between political actions and religious beliefs.
Vance has faced backlash not only from the pope but also from various members of the Catholic community regarding his immigration policies. His remarks suggesting that Christians prioritize love for their families, neighbors, and fellow citizens before extending compassion to others around the world have sparked debates within the Church. This ongoing discourse reflects the complexities at the intersection of faith and politics.
This meeting between Vice President Vance and Pope Leo XIV serves as a vital reminder of the challenges and responsibilities that leaders face in navigating both domestic and international issues, particularly concerning faith and humanitarian efforts.
