The Vice President of the United States, JD Vance, attended the Passion of the Lord rites at St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican this Good Friday with his family. Although Pope Francis was not present due to his convalescence from respiratory issues, this marks the third consecutive time that the Argentine pontiff has not participated in this celebration.
During the pope's absence, the meditations he had written to guide the Stations of the Cross in the Colosseum in Rome were read. JD Vance joined the ceremony at St. Peter's Basilica, showing his respect for the religious tradition in the Vatican.
Pope Francis, who is still recovering, sent his reflections for the Good Friday ritual from his residence, participating symbolically through his writings. Despite his physical absence, his meditations were read during the event, maintaining his spiritual influence on the celebration.
JD Vance's presence at the religious rites in the Vatican without the company of the pope highlights the importance of the ceremony and the reverence for sacred traditions during Holy Week. Although the leader of the Catholic Church could not attend in person, his message and teachings were present through the readings in the Colosseum and at St. Peter's Basilica.
