Before giving the blessing, the pope had a brief private meeting with Vice President Vance, a devout Catholic, which “provided an opportunity to exchange Easter greetings” according to the Vatican.

Vance, a Catholic who has clashed with the pontiff over the Trump administration's immigration policies, met Francis at his Vatican residence to exchange Easter greetings, the statement said.

Pope Francis gave the traditional Easter blessing on Sunday, appearing from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica in front of delighted crowds after a brief meeting with Vice President JD Vance in ...