Pope Leo XIV and VP Vance discuss Church-State relations
Pope Leo XIV received U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance at the Vatican, just a day after his inauguration. Their meeting focused on topics such as cooperation between the Church and the state and religious freedom.
What you need to know
- Pope Leo XIV received U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance on Monday at the Vatican, a day following his inauguration.
- The discussions covered cooperation between the Church and the state as well as issues of religious freedom.
- The exchange also touched on current international topics and the importance of respecting humanitarian law.
Pope Leo XIV, elected at the conclave on May 8, welcomed U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance to an audience. The meeting occurred the day after the pontifical inauguration, which was attended by 250,000 people and 156 delegations, including Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky.
In a statement, the Vatican expressed satisfaction with its positive relations with the U.S. The talks with Vance focused on cooperation between the Church and the state and respect for international law. The meeting underscored the significance of dialogue in resolving conflicts.
Vice President Vance also met with Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Holy See's head of diplomacy. They discussed current international issues, highlighting the need to respect humanitarian and international law in conflict areas. Both parties expressed a desire to resolve disputes through negotiation.
The inauguration of Leo XIV
During the inauguration, Leo XIV received the pallium and the Fisherman's Ring, symbols of his papal authority. The ceremony took place in St. Peter's Square, where the pope delivered a homily emphasizing the importance of international cooperation.
The inauguration of Leo XIV's pontificate coincided with the 105th anniversary of John Paul II's birth. The pope used the popemobile for the first time to greet the faithful gathered in the square.
