Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday at age 88 after a meeting with Vice President JD Vance, sparking online speculation and controversy about the timing of their Vatican encounter.
At a Glance
- Pope Francis died at age 88 on Easter Monday following a prolonged battle with respiratory illness
- Vice President JD Vance met with the Pope at the Vatican just one day before his passing
- Social media users drew comparisons to Liz Truss’s visit to Queen Elizabeth II shortly before her death
- Vance, a Catholic convert, expressed condolences and recalled a memorable homily from the Pope
- President Trump ordered U.S. flags to fly at half-staff in honor of Pope Francis
Final Vatican Meeting Before Pope’s Passing
Vice President JD Vance met with Pope Francis at the Vatican on Easter Sunday, just one day before the pontiff’s death. The brief encounter took place at the Domus Santa Marta, where the two exchanged Easter greetings despite their known disagreements over migration policies. During the meeting, Vance reportedly told the Pope, “I know you’ve not been feeling great, but it’s good see you in better health,” suggesting awareness of the pontiff’s fragile condition while still expressing optimism about his improvement.
The Vatican meeting included an exchange of gifts, with Pope Francis presenting items for Vance’s children through a translator who said, “These are for your children.” The gifts included chocolate eggs, rosaries, and a Vatican tie. Vance, who converted to Catholicism from atheism, also met with Cardinal Pietro Parolin during his Vatican visit to discuss shared religious faith, Catholicism in the United States, and various global issues before continuing his diplomatic trip to India.
Pope’s Health Struggles and Final Days
Pope Francis had been battling serious respiratory illness for some time, having been hospitalized for 38 days and reportedly nearly dying twice during his illness. Despite medical advice to remain isolated following his hospital discharge, the 88-year-old pontiff continued with several public appearances leading up to Easter, demonstrating his commitment to fulfilling his papal duties despite his deteriorating health condition. The Pope’s determination to maintain his public schedule, including the meeting with Vice President Vance, reflected his dedication to his role as the head of the Catholic Church.
Following news of the Pope’s death, President Trump issued a statement honoring Francis, saying, “He was a good man. He loved the world and it’s an honor to do that.” The White House released an official statement of condolence, and President Trump ordered U.S. flags to fly at half-staff as a mark of respect for the deceased pontiff, recognizing his significant impact on not just the Catholic Church but the world at large.
Online Reaction and Speculation
The timing of Vance’s Vatican visit and the Pope’s subsequent death quickly became fodder for speculation on social media platforms, particularly on X (formerly Twitter). Users drew parallels between this meeting and former British Prime Minister Liz Truss’s visit to Queen Elizabeth II shortly before her death in 2022. This coincidental similarity led to a range of reactions online, from sincere speculation to satirical commentary about the Vice President’s visit potentially being connected to the Pope’s passing.
Some of the online theories and jokes went as far as referencing witchcraft or calling Vance the “anti-christ,” while others made comparisons to crime show suspects. These reactions highlight the way significant events can quickly transform into internet phenomena, blending genuine mourning with dark humor and conspiracy theories. Despite the controversial nature of some comments, many world leaders, including Vice President Vance, focused on honoring Pope Francis’s legacy and expressing condolences to Catholics worldwide.