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On Easter Sunday, Vice President JD Vance engaged in a significant meeting with Pope Francis at the Vatican, as confirmed by a spokesperson for Vance. This encounter comes amidst a backdrop of sharply differing views regarding immigration policies, especially in light of the Trump administration’s harsh stance on deportation.
Pope Francis has consistently emphasized the importance of compassion towards migrants, making it a central theme throughout his papacy. His progressive stance on social justice issues has often placed him in opposition to several conservative factions within the U.S. Catholic community.
In addition to his advocacy for migrants, Francis has also shifted church teachings on capital punishment, declaring it unacceptable in all circumstances.
Conversely, Vice President Vance has defended the Trump administration’s strict immigration policies by referencing an idea from medieval Catholic theology known as “ordo amoris,” which outlines a hierarchy of care that prioritizes family before community and fellow citizens, ultimately placing those from abroad at the end of the priority list.
In correspondence dated February 10, the Pope responded to Vance’s interpretation of “ordo amoris,” clarifying that Christian love should not merely expand in concentric circles based on interest. Instead, Francis suggested that the true concept is illustrated in the parable of the Good Samaritan, advocating for love that fosters fraternity without boundaries.
Vance has acknowledged the Pope’s critique but maintains his original stance. During a National Catholic Prayer Breakfast on February 28, he identified himself as a “baby Catholic” and admitted to gaps in his understanding of the faith.
Over the Easter weekend in Rome, Vance was accompanied by his family, attending Good Friday services at St. Peter’s Basilica following his meeting with Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni. The Vance family also enjoyed a private tour of the Sistine Chapel, and Vance held discussions with high-ranking Vatican officials.
After a meeting with Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Holy See confirmed its positive relations with Vance, noting “an exchange of opinions” regarding pressing global issues such as migration, conflicts, and prisoners.
The Vatican has traditionally maintained a neutral diplomatic stance towards the Trump administration. Concerns about the administration’s rigorous immigration policies and reductions in international aid were acknowledged in its communication after the meeting, which described the talks as amicable while affirming the administration’s commitment to freedom of religion and conscience.
In its statement, the Vatican highlighted the discussions surrounding the international landscape, especially regarding war-torn nations and pressing humanitarian crises, with special emphasis on migrants and refugees. The Vatican expressed hope for a productive partnership between the State and the Catholic Church in the U.S., recognizing the Church’s significant role in aiding the vulnerable.
The term “serene collaboration” mentioned in the Vatican’s statement may indirectly address Vance’s claims about the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops facilitating the resettlement of “illegal immigrants” for federal funding. Such allegations have faced strong rebuttal from prominent members of the U.S. Catholic hierarchy.
Cardinal Parolin previously remarked on the contrasting approaches of the current U.S. administration compared to traditional policies in the West. Following the confirmation of the meeting, Vance’s office relayed that discussions focused on shared religious beliefs, the condition of persecuted Christian communities worldwide, and President Trump’s efforts to promote global peace.
However, the specifics discussed during the meeting were not divulged by the Vatican.
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