JD Vance Remembers Pope Francis Just Hours Before Heartbreaking Passing

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Vice President JD Vance is remembering Pope Francis, one day after their Easter meeting.

After the passing of Pope Francis (who was born as Jorge Mario Bergoglio) on April 21, Vance shared his encounters with this prominent Catholic figure.

Vance expressed sympathy for the countless Christians worldwide who adored him, posting this on X (previously Twitter). Yesterday, I had the pleasure of seeing him, despite his evident illness.

The person who was 40 years old went on to say, ‘I’ll never forget that sermon he delivered at the start of the pandemic. It was truly moving. May he find peace in heaven.’

The Vice President provided a link to the sermon (that was) delivered by Francis on March 27, 2020 – a day when the world was in the initial phase of the COVID-19 lockdown and many were spending time at home due to isolation.

Over the past few weeks, it’s been nighttime. A dense, enveloping darkness has settled upon our town squares, roads, and cities,” the Pope penned. “We seem to be filled with fear and disorientation.

In these challenging circumstances, I too find solace in expressing feelings of optimism and unity, much like the leader of the Catholic Church does through his prayers.

Francis pointed out that we’re all in the same ship, vulnerable and confused, yet crucial and necessary. We’re all tasked with paddling together, each providing solace to the other. In this vessel… we find ourselves, every one of us.

The Vatican has announced that Francis passed away, this being a day following Easter and approximately two months since his admission to the hospital due to breathing problems.

At 7:35 this morning, Pope Francis, the Bishop of Rome, came back to the residence of the Father, Cardinal Kevin Farrell stated. He inspires us to embody the principles of the Gospel with devotion, bravery, and boundless love, particularly for the most vulnerable and overlooked members of society.

During his papacy that started in 2013, Pope Francis became known as one of the more progressive popes in history. Not only did he adapt to the digital era by becoming the first Pope to have an Instagram and write an op-ed for The New York Times, but he also demonstrated a more inclusive attitude towards individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community.

In 2013, he expressed to the media, “Should anyone who identifies as gay, yearns for God, and holds a noble heart, have reason to be judged by me?

Additionally, though he upheld the Catholic doctrine that marriage is between a man and a woman, he also advocated for legal safeguards to be granted to same-sex partners.

In the 2020 documentary Francesco, Francis expressed his viewpoint, stating, “What we need is a law for civil unions, ensuring them legal protection.

For a closer look at some of the Pope’s final appearances before his death, keep reading.

In February, Pope Francis attended his weekly general audience in the Paul VI hall at the Vatican.

Towards the end of that particular month, the Pope gave a sermon during a service dedicated to the Jubilee of Military, Law Enforcement, and Safety Workers, which took place in Saint Peter’s Square.

Following over five weeks of hospital stay, the Pope delivered a message from the balcony of Gemelli Hospital prior to his release.

Pope Francis, in his wheelchair, warmly welcomed cardinals following the conclusion of Palm Sunday Mass in St. Peter’s Square on April 13th.

On Easter Sunday in Vatican City, Vatican, mere hours before his death, Pope Francis held a meeting with U.S. Vice President JD Vance and his delegation at the Casa Santa Marta residence.

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2025-04-21 15:17