JD Vance Gave the Pope a Bears Jersey—and a White House Invite

When Vice President JD Vance met Pope Leo XIV this week, he didn’t just bring official letters and diplomatic talking points. He also brought a Chicago Bears jersey.

Yes, really.

Vance, in Rome for the new pope’s inauguration, came bearing a mix of symbolism and sportsmanship. The jersey—customized with “Leo XIV” on the back—was a nod to the pontiff’s Chicago roots. But the real headline was what came with it: a formal invitation from President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump for the Pope to visit the White House.

The meeting, held inside the Apostolic Palace, was both warm and strategic. Vance, a Catholic convert, led the U.S. delegation, joined by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and their spouses. According to both sides, the conversation focused on global conflicts—particularly the war in Ukraine—with a shared emphasis on humanitarian law, diplomacy, and the need for negotiated peace.

The Pope responded graciously to the invitation and gifts, offering Vance a bronze medallion representing peace and a photo book showcasing the beauty and history of the Vatican. The vibe? Cordial, respectful, and just a little bit unexpected—especially with football gear on the table.

This visit comes at a time when the Trump administration is looking to reset its relationship with the Vatican. Things were tense during Trump’s first term, especially on issues like immigration. Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, has also been vocal about protecting the vulnerable, but is seen as more diplomatic than confrontational.

After the meeting with the Pope, Vance and Rubio also sat down with Archbishop Paul Gallagher, the Vatican’s top diplomat, to dig deeper into U.S.–Vatican relations, including religious freedom and humanitarian concerns.

As for the invitation? The Vatican hasn’t said yes (or no) yet. Some Vatican-watchers think the Pope may visit Latin America—especially Peru, where he has strong ties—before heading to D.C. But the fact that the meeting happened at all, and that it went smoothly, is being seen as a meaningful step forward.

Whether or not the Pope ends up throwing the first pitch at Nationals Park anytime soon, the Bears jersey made a statement: sometimes, diplomacy works better with a personal touch.