Vice President Vance Defends Pope Francis’ Papacy by Calling Him “Holy Father” and a Great Shepherd Who Tells the Truth

Vice President JD Vance, a Catholic convert, has expressed respect for the pontiff’s leadership. Speaking at the National Catholic Prayer Breakfast on February 28, 2025, Vance acknowledged Pope Francis’ recent critique of the Trump administration’s immigration policies but instead emphasized his respect for the Pope’s dedication to the global Catholic community, leading a prayer for Francis’ health during the event. Vance described the Pope as a true shepherd who cares about the flock of Christians under his leadership. This stance highlights Vance’s recognition of Pope Francis as the legitimate head of the Catholic Church, despite the ultra-conservatives within the Church who question the Pope’s legitimacy. Vance also warned conservative Catholics not to be so preoccupied with every word uttered from the Papacy.

JD Vance is by far the most influential, conservative Roman Catholic in the United States and has emerged as a prominent leader within the Christian conservative movement, exemplified by his active support of Project 2025, calling it an “essential weapon.” [1] JD Vance also praised Kevin Roberts, President of The Heritage Foundation and architect of Project 2025, by writing the foreword in Roberts’ new book. [2] Through such endorsements and his influential political role, Vance has positioned himself at the forefront of efforts to infuse government policies with Christian conservative principles in America, reflecting the strategic objectives of Project 2025.

And despite his differences with Pope Francis, Vance continues to recognize the current Papacy as the true authority of the Church and remains united with him in faith—whom he called the “Holy Father.” Tragically, this is a title that belongs only to God. The Bible makes it clear that God alone is our Father, as Jesus Himself teaches in Matthew 23:9: “And call no man your father on earth, for you have one Father, who is in heaven.” This verse emphasizes that ultimately all authority praise belongs solely to God. The use of the title “Holy Father” for any man, including the Pope, contradicts this biblical teaching. Scripture calls believers to honor and follow God’s word above human traditions, ensuring that reverence is given only to the One who is truly sovereign.

Sources

[1] https://democrats.org/news/jd-vance-praised-project-2025-leader-kevin-roberts-and-called-his-dangerous-plans-an-essential-weapon/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

[2] https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/jul/30/jd-vance-project-2025-book-foreword