Pope Francis became the head of the Catholic Church in 2013. Source: Mega
Social media exploded after Pope Francis died just hours after meeting Vice President J.D. Vance in Vatican City.
On Sunday, April 20, the two greeted each other and shared Easter wishes—despite clashing earlier over Donald Trump’s deportation agenda.
During their meeting, J.D. Vance, 40, told Pope Francis, “I know you haven’t been feeling well, but it’s great to see you looking better. Thank you for making time for me.”
As they parted, the Ohio senator added, “I pray for you every day. God bless you.”
Vance tweeted after the meeting, saying, “Today I met with the Holy Father Pope Francis. I’m grateful for his invitation and pray for his good health. Happy Easter!”
Tragically, just hours later, Pope Francis passed away at age 88.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo, confirmed the news: “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father.”
He added, “Pope Francis dedicated his life to serving God and the Church. He lived the Gospel with faith, courage, and deep love — especially for the poor and marginalized. We now entrust his soul to God’s infinite mercy.”
Social media exploded with jokes about the bizarre timing, especially from critics who dislike Vance for his hardline views.
“Not him passing away four hours after this. J.D. Vance is the anti-Christ confirmed,” one user joked.
Another quipped, “I’m not saying J.D. Vance killed the Pope… I’m just asking questions.”
A third wrote, “He met J.D. and gave up on the world.”
One tweet read, “I don’t think Vance killed the Pope — but meeting him probably drained the will to live. Slight difference.”
After the backlash, Vance shared a tribute on X.
“I just learned of the passing of Pope Francis,” he wrote. “My heart goes out to the millions of Christians who loved him.”
“I was glad to see him yesterday, even though he looked very ill. I’ll always remember the homily he gave during early COVID. It was beautiful. May God rest his soul.”
Pope Francis had battled serious health issues in recent weeks. Just last month, doctors hospitalized him with a case of double pneumonia.
