(ZENIT News / Washington, 03.04.2025).- Vice President JD Vance took center stage at the annual National Catholic Prayer Breakfast on February 28, offering a striking blend of reconciliation and conviction in response to recent criticism from Pope Francis regarding U.S. immigration policies. While reaffirming the Trump administration’s firm stance on immigration, Vance adopted a measured tone toward the Holy Father, expressing deep respect for his leadership and offering prayers for his health following a recent hospitalization.
Vance, a Catholic convert, acknowledged that he was surprised by the Pope’s remarks but chose to focus on what unites rather than divides them. “Since I learned of Pope Francis’ illness, I have prayed for him daily,” he said. “Yes, I was taken aback by his comments on our immigration policies, but I also recognize that the Holy Father is ultimately a shepherd who deeply cares for the souls under his guidance.”
Speaking before an audience of nearly 1,400, including prominent Catholic leaders, clergy, and political figures, the vice president avoided direct confrontation with the Pope, instead recalling a moment of inspiration he had drawn from Francis’ leadership. He referenced the Pope’s powerful 2020 homily in an empty St. Peter’s Square during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, describing how it had resonated with him during that period of uncertainty.
“That is how I will always remember the Holy Father,” Vance reflected, “as a man who speaks profound truth in moments of great crisis.” He then led a prayer for Pope Francis’ health and recovery, concluding with a nod to the Pope’s imagery from that same homily, vowing to be a leader who helps America develop the “antibodies” needed to withstand adversity.
Beyond the discussion of immigration and the Pope’s critique, Vance’s speech centered on the role of faith in public life and the Trump administration’s commitment to religious values. He emphasized that Catholics should not treat their spiritual leaders like social media influencers, warning against an obsession with every statement they make. Instead, he encouraged a return to the respect and wisdom with which past generations regarded clergy.
“We should follow the example of our grandparents,” Vance said. “They turned to the Church for guidance, respected its leaders, but did not hang onto every word, waiting for the next controversy.” He urged Catholics to avoid internal divisions and instead focus on living their faith with integrity.
Vance also used the opportunity to highlight why he believes Donald Trump has been an extraordinary president for Catholics, contrasting his record with that of his predecessor, Joe Biden. He pointed to Trump’s pro-life stance, defense of religious liberty, and resistance to taxpayer-funded abortion as evidence of his commitment to Catholic values.
“While the last administration weaponized the Justice Department against pro-life activists, harassed Catholic fathers, and defended abortion until the moment of birth, in just 30 days, President Trump has taken us in the exact opposite direction,” Vance declared, drawing strong applause from the audience.
Reflecting on his own faith journey, the vice president spoke about how Catholicism shapes his worldview. He argued that public officials should prioritize deeper, moral concerns over purely economic measures. “If the stock market is thriving but life expectancy is dropping, we have to do better,” he said, stressing the importance of protecting the unborn, strengthening families, and ensuring the well-being of future generations.
The 20th annual breakfast, inspired by Pope John Paul II’s call for a “new evangelization,” brought together key Catholic figures from various fields. Among those in attendance were papal ambassador Cardinal Christophe Pierre, actor Eduardo Verástegui, and Hallow app co-founder Alessandro DiSanto. Representative Chris Smith, a longtime pro-life advocate, was honored with the Christifideles Laici Award, joking that he had met his wife through the pro-life movement—“Who knew it was also a matchmaking service?”
For Vance, the moment was particularly significant. Just a year ago, he had attended the breakfast as a newly elected senator from Ohio. Now, standing before the audience as the first Catholic convert to serve as vice president, he underscored the impact of faith on governance. His speech reinforced the administration’s commitment to Catholic values while signaling a willingness to engage respectfully with Church leaders, even when disagreements arise.
As the event concluded, Vance left the audience with a final assurance: “We won’t always agree on everything, but this administration will always stand for faith, for life, and for the fundamental freedoms that make our nation strong.”
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