On Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, Pope Francis and U.S. Vice President JD Vance held a brief private meeting at the Vatican’s Santa Marta residence. The encounter, lasting only a few minutes, was centered around exchanging Easter greetings. This meeting took place while Pope Francis continues his recovery from double pneumonia, a condition that had previously confined him to the hospital for over a month .

Despite their differing views on various issues, including immigration policies, the meeting was described as cordial. Vance, a Catholic convert and former supporter of President Donald Trump’s immigration policies, had previously clashed with Pope Francis over Trump’s crackdown on immigration and social welfare cuts .

The Vatican’s statement highlighted that the discussion included an exchange of opinions on the international situation, particularly concerning countries affected by war, political tensions, and humanitarian crises, with a special focus on migrants, refugees, and prisoners .

This meeting underscores the ongoing dialogue between religious leaders and political figures, even amidst policy disagreements, reflecting the complex relationship between faith and politics.

In their brief Easter Sunday meeting at the Vatican’s Santa Marta residence, Pope Francis and Vice President JD Vance not only exchanged greetings but also reflected on the intersection of faith and policy. The Vatican’s statement highlighted that the discussion included an exchange of opinions on the international situation, especially regarding countries affected by war, political tensions, and difficult humanitarian situations, with particular attention to migrants, refugees, and prisoners .

This meeting comes at a time when both leaders have been vocal about their respective views on various issues. Pope Francis has been an advocate for the marginalized and has called for compassion towards migrants and refugees. Vice President Vance, on the other hand, has emphasized the importance of national security and has supported policies aimed at reducing illegal immigration.

The meeting at Santa Marta provided a platform for both leaders to discuss these complex issues, reflecting the ongoing dialogue between religious leaders and political figures on matters of faith and policy.