Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are set to attend the inaugural mass of Pope Leo XIV in Vatican City on Sunday, a significant event for American Catholics as Leo is the first U.S.-born pope. Vance, a Catholic who previously met Pope Francis before his recent death, will be part of the U.S. delegation to the mass at Saint Peter’s Square. Born Robert Prevost in Chicago, Leo was elected pope by a conclave last week.
Before his ascension, Leo made social media posts that appeared critical of Vance and former President Trump. In a response to his election, Vance expressed his support, noting that “millions of American Catholics and other Christians will pray for his successful work leading the Church.” He addressed potential political differences with Leo, mentioning the complexities of aligning the 2,000-year-old institution of the Church with modern American politics, emphasizing that he would pray for Leo despite any disagreements.
Following Leo’s election, Trump referred to it as a “Great Honor for our Country,” expressing anticipation for their eventual meeting. These comments came amid controversy, including backlash over an AI-generated image of Trump depicted as the pope, which many, including Catholic leaders, deemed inappropriate.
Leo, elevated to cardinal by Pope Francis in 2023, has been involved in ecclesiastical work in Peru. His election marks a notable milestone for American Catholics, and Vance has committed to supporting him through prayer as the new pope navigates complex religious and political landscapes.
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