Pope Leo Snubs JD Vance After Inaugural Mass

Published: Sunday, May 18, 2025 at 4:26 pm

Pope Leo XIV Snubs JD Vance After Inaugural Mass, Signaling Disapproval

Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff, delivered a clear message to Vice President JD Vance on Sunday, offering a brief greeting after his inaugural mass while engaging in extensive private meetings with other world leaders. The 17-second handshake, a stark contrast to the longer meetings afforded to figures like Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Peruvian President Dina Ercilia Boluarte Zegarra, has sparked speculation about the relationship between the two leaders.

The snub follows subtle criticisms of Vance and the previous administration during Leo's inaugural sermon. The Pope's words, which touched on themes of discord, hatred, and economic exploitation, were widely interpreted as a veiled critique of policies related to immigration and resource management. This is not the first time Vance has faced criticism from Catholic leadership.

Before becoming Pope, Father Robert Prevost, now Pope Leo, had previously shared articles critical of Vance's stance on immigration, particularly his perceived complicity in the Trump administration's policies. Vance, when asked about the criticism, has attempted to downplay the political implications, stating he avoids "playing the politicization of the Pope game."

Vance's relationship with the Vatican has been strained. Pope Francis, the previous pontiff, criticized Vance's defense of immigration policies in a letter to Catholic bishops. Despite these tensions, Vance has attempted to mend ties, including a recent visit to Pope Francis' tomb.

The White House has yet to comment on whether Vance sought a longer meeting with Pope Leo or if one is planned. Vance was scheduled to meet with other European leaders, including Zelensky, on Sunday.

BNN's Perspective: While the Pope's actions are undoubtedly a signal of disapproval, it's important to remember that the Vatican often navigates complex political landscapes. The Pope's focus on social justice issues and his criticism of policies that marginalize vulnerable populations are consistent with the Church's teachings. This situation highlights the ongoing tension between religious values and political realities, particularly concerning immigration and economic inequality.

Keywords: Pope Leo XIV, JD Vance, Inaugural Mass, Vatican, Volodymyr Zelensky, Dina Ercilia Boluarte Zegarra, Immigration, Criticism, Pope Francis, Robert Prevost, Trump administration, Catholic Church, Politics, Snub, World Leaders, Sermon, White House, Marco Rubio, European Leaders

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