On Saturday, JD Vance, the Vice President of the United States, met with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vaticans Secretary of State, and Archbishop Paul Gallagher, the Vaticans foreign minister. This meeting, which the Vatican described as featuring an exchange of opinions, focused on pressing international conflicts and the ongoing immigration crisis. Following the meeting, the Vatican issued an official statement, highlighting the exchange as cordial, though it did not confirm any encounter between Vance and Pope Francis, who has recently returned to official duties after recovering from pneumonia.

The Vatican has consistently maintained a position of diplomatic neutrality, especially in its dealings with the Trump administration. This has become particularly relevant given the administrations controversial policies on immigration and international aid. The Holy See has voiced its concerns regarding the significant crackdown on immigration enacted by former President Donald Trump, alongside cuts to international aid programs.

During their discussions, the Vatican officials expressed alarm over the current global circumstances, particularly those affecting the war-torn regions of Ukraine and Gaza. The Vatican emphasized the importance of seeking peaceful resolutions to these conflicts. The official statement reiterated the administrations commitment to safeguarding freedom of religion and conscience, an essential value for the Catholic Church.

According to the Vaticans statement, There was 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. The Vatican's concerns reflected a broader desire for constructive dialogue and collaboration between the U.S. government and the Catholic Church, which plays a vital role in providing services to vulnerable populations.

The phrase serene collaboration in the Vaticans statement could be interpreted as a nuanced response to Vances previous accusations that the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops was involved in resettling illegal immigrants for financial gain. This claim has faced strong pushback from prominent U.S. cardinals, who have defended the Churchs mission to assist those in need.

Ahead of Vances visit, Cardinal Parolin provided insight into the Vaticans perspective, stating, It is clear that the approach of the current U.S. administration is very different from what we are used to and, especially in the west, from what we have relied on for many years. This remark highlights the tension between the Vaticans traditional diplomatic stance and the more aggressive foreign policy approaches of the Trump administration.

As the U.S. continues its efforts to resolve the conflict in Ukraine, Parolin reaffirmed Ukraines right to territorial integrity. He insisted that any peace agreement must be constructed through a process that respects the sovereignty of Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and mutual respect in achieving lasting peace.

JD Vance, who was in Rome for Easter weekend with his family, attended Good Friday services at St. Peters Basilica following his meetings. His family was also introduced to Cardinal Parolin and enjoyed a private tour of the renowned Sistine Chapel. However, as of the statements release, it remained unclear where they would celebrate Easter Sunday. Pope Francis, according to official liturgical plans, expressed hope in attending the Easter mass, which typically attracts thousands of attendees in St. Peters Square.

The relationship between Pope Francis and Vance has been complex, particularly concerning immigration policy. The Pope advocates a compassionate approach to migrants, presenting a stark contrast to the more hardline stance taken by the Trump administration during its tenure. Additionally, during his papacy, Francis has altered teachings regarding capital punishment, declaring it inadmissible in all circumstancesan issue that has seen Vance and the Pope at odds. After Francis publicly condemned the deportation plans, Vance defended the administrations approach by invoking concepts from medieval Catholic theology, specifically the principle of ordo amoris, which prioritizes care starting from family and extending outward.

In a letter addressed to U.S. bishops earlier this year, Pope Francis seemed to counter Vances interpretation of this theological concept. He articulated that Christian love should not merely expand in concentric circles but should be inclusive, advocating for fraternity open to all individuals, regardless of their background or status. While Vance has acknowledged the Popes criticism, he has publicly committed to his views and intends to continue advocating for them. At a recent National Catholic Prayer Breakfast, he identified himself as a baby Catholic and noted that he has much to learn about the faith.