U.S. Vice President JD Vance will travel to the Vatican this weekend to attend the inaugural mass of Pope Leo XIV, marking a historic occasion as the newly elected pontiff becomes the first American to lead the Roman Catholic Church.
Vance will be joined by his wife, Usha, and a high-level U.S. delegation that includes Secretary of State Marco Rubio and his wife, Jeanette. Rubio, a practicing Catholic, will stand alongside Vance at the event.
Several world leaders are also expected to attend, including Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Pope Leo XIV’s election has sparked pride and hope in the U.S., particularly given his Chicago roots. Born Robert Francis Prevost, the 69-year-old’s rise is already prompting discussion about his possible influence in Washington.
Vance had previously faced criticism from then-Pope Francis during his visit to the Vatican in April. According to the Holy See, the visit included a “frank exchange of opinions” on humanitarian issues, especially regarding migrants, refugees, and prisoners.
Pope Leo XIV also appears to differ with Vance’s views. Earlier this year, while still a cardinal, Prevost published an op-ed titled “JD Vance is wrong: Jesus doesn’t ask us to rank our love for others.”
Despite their differences, Vance—who converted to Catholicism in 2019—congratulated Pope Leo XIV and said he would pray for his success.
