U.S. Vice President JD Vance and his family attended Good Friday services at the Vatican, marking a significant moment during their visit to Italy for Easter. The pope, who is currently recovering from health issues, did not participate in the ceremonies.
On April 18, 2025, Vance, who converted to Roman Catholicism six years ago, joined a special mass in St. Peter’s Basilica that commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus. He arrived in Rome earlier that day as part of an official trip, which also included a meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, a notable ally of former President Donald Trump.
The Vice President and his family entered the service shortly before it began, accompanied by a large security detail from the Secret Service. Ahead of the mass, Vance shared a message on social media, expressing gratitude for his role and the opportunity to celebrate Good Friday in Rome. He wrote, “He died so that we might live,” reflecting on the significance of the day.
Later in the evening, a Way of the Cross procession was scheduled to take place at the Colosseum, led by the Vicar General of the Diocese of Rome. The Vatican’s Easter celebrations will continue with the Easter Vigil on Saturday and an outdoor mass on Easter Sunday in St. Peter’s Square.
On Saturday, Vance is expected to meet with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s secretary of state, who is the highest-ranking official after Pope Francis. This visit highlights the ongoing relationship between the U.S. and the Vatican, especially in the context of shared values and international collaboration.