VATICAN CITY (AP) — On Saturday, U.S. Vice President JD Vance visited Vatican City for a significant meeting with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican's Secretary of State, and Archbishop Paul Gallagher, the foreign minister. This visit comes on the heels of a notable papal rebuke of the Trump administration's strict immigration policies, an issue Vance has publicly defended. The Vatican has maintained a cautious stance towards the Trump administration, aiming to uphold its tradition of diplomatic neutrality, especially regarding the ongoing humanitarian crises around migration and international aid cuts.
During his meeting with Cardinal Parolin, Vance faced criticism for his theological justification of the Trump administration's immigration policies. Parolin acknowledged the stark differences between the current U.S. administration's approach and previous ones, especially regarding migration issues, and emphasized the Vatican's commitment to peaceful resolutions in conflict zones like Ukraine and Gaza. He reinforced Ukraine's territorial integrity and stressed the necessity of dialogue and mutual respect in any peace negotiations.
As part of his Easter weekend in Rome, Vance attended the Good Friday services at St. Peter's Basilica with his family following discussions with Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni. Despite the speculation that he might meet with Pope Francis, who has been gradually returning to his duties after recovering from pneumonia, no confirmation has been made about a personal greeting.
In recent weeks, Pope Francis has been outspoken against the Trump administration's efforts to deport migrants, framing it as a violation of their inherent dignity. This aligns with his broader advocacy for social justice and support for migrants, a hallmark of his papacy. Vance, a Catholic convert since 2019, has sought to align himself with a Catholic intellectual movement often criticized for its reactionary tendencies, which contains postliberal views around government policies and social issues.
Pope Francis responded directly to Vance's previous claims that Catholic doctrine could justify the administration's hardline stance on immigration. In a letter sent to U.S. bishops, Francis addressed the concept of "ordo amoris," a Latin philosophical tenet that Vance cited to support his views on immigration prioritization. The Pope clarified that true Christian love transcends a mere hierarchy of care and should be based on the ideals seen in the parable of the Good Samaritan, advocating for a brotherhood that encompasses all individuals, without exception.
Although Vance recognized Francis's criticism of his interpretation of Catholic teachings, he has continued to uphold his views publicly. During an appearance at the National Catholic Prayer Breakfast, he described himself as a "baby Catholic," acknowledging his learning journey within the faith. While previously critical of the Pope on social media, Vance has recently shared prayers for Francis’s health, showcasing a more conciliatory approach.
On Good Friday, Vance and his family participated in a solemn two-hour service at St. Peter's Basilica but noted that Pope Francis himself did not attend. The pontiff has, however, started receiving visitors, including notable figures like King Charles III, and has kept engagements with marginalized groups in society, visiting prisons during Holy Week. While officials have indicated that a brief meeting between Vance and the Pope is not entirely ruled out, no plans have been confirmed as of yet.
Vance expressed gratitude for his visit during this significant Christian observance, extending warm wishes for a blessed Good Friday to Christians around the world, particularly those in the United States.
