In what would become one of his final public encounters, Pope Francis met briefly with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025—just one day before his death on Easter Monday.
According to the Holy See Press Office, the private meeting took place at approximately 11:30 a.m. at the Casa Santa Marta and lasted only a few minutes. The Holy Father and Vice President exchanged Easter greetings and spoke briefly in English. Vance expressed his appreciation, saying, “It’s good to see you in better health.” Pope Francis responded warmly, and the two wished each other a “Happy Easter.”
During the exchange, Pope Francis presented Vance with a Vatican tie, a red rosary for him, white rosaries for his children, a separate white rosary for his wife, and three large chocolate Easter eggs. Vance responded, “Thank you. It’s beautiful,” according to the Vatican.
The day before, Vice President Vance had held a formal meeting with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State. That conversation focused on international relations, religious freedom, and humanitarian concerns. According to the Holy See Press Office, both sides expressed hope for continued collaboration between the U.S. government and the Catholic Church in America.
Vance and his family also participated in the Liturgy of the Lord’s Passion on Good Friday evening at St. Peter’s Basilica, marking a meaningful Easter pilgrimage.
Pope Francis passed away the next morning, Monday, April 21, 2025, at 7:35 a.m., as announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church. “With deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” Farrell said. “His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church.”
The Easter Sunday audience with Vice President Vance now stands as a poignant final chapter in Pope Francis’ papacy—an encounter marked by prayer, diplomacy, and gifts of peace just hours before the close of a historic and beloved pontificate.
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