Vance Meets With New Pope

Vice President JD Vance Leads U.S. Delegation to Historic Papal Inauguration

In a powerful display of faith and diplomacy, Vice President JD Vance and Second Lady Usha Vance traveled to Vatican City on Sunday to attend the historic inauguration Mass of Pope Leo XIV — the first American-born pope in Catholic Church history.

The Vice President, a proud Catholic convert since 2019, led the official U.S. delegation alongside Secretary of State Marco Rubio and his wife, Jeanette. The moment underscored America’s enduring commitment to traditional values, religious freedom, and global leadership rooted in faith.

A Brief Yet Meaningful Encounter with the Pope

After the ceremony at St. Peter’s Square, Vice President Vance and the Second Lady greeted Pope Leo XIV. The two men shook hands and shared a private conversation. Usha Vance, wearing a black lace veil in accordance with Vatican tradition, stood respectfully beside her husband during the exchange.

The meeting comes just weeks after Vance’s private audience with the late Pope Francis, adding deeper spiritual meaning to this moment of continuity between two papacies.

World Leaders Watch as Vatican Eyes Peace in Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also attended the Mass and greeted the Holy Father. Pope Leo has signaled a willingness to host peace talks between Russia and Ukraine at the Vatican—a rare opportunity for diplomatic dialogue guided by moral leadership.

Pope Leo and Vance: A Meeting of Minds Despite Past Differences

Though the meeting was cordial, it did not come without context. Earlier this year, Pope Leo reposted articles on social media criticizing Vance’s strong stance on immigration. One article questioned Vance’s belief that Christians should first prioritize their families, communities, and fellow citizens over global concerns.

Despite criticism from left-leaning voices within the Church, Vance has remained firm in his belief that a secure border, strong families, and national responsibility are not only constitutional values—but moral ones.

Faith, Borders, and America First Values

JD Vance’s presence at the Vatican sends a powerful message: faith and patriotism go hand in hand. As debates over immigration, sovereignty, and national identity continue, Vance’s views reflect the values of millions of Americans who believe in putting God, family, and country first.

A Moment That Matters

As the world watches a new chapter begin in the Vatican, Vice President Vance continues to represent the heartland of America — where faith is real, tradition is respected, and leadership is grounded in truth.