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U.S. bishops rebuke JD Vance after he lectured the pope on theology

politicsApr 16, 2026211,380

Vice President JD Vance warned Pope Leo XIV to "be careful" when speaking about theology after Pope Leo XIV warned about people WHO "manipulate religion." The U.S. bishops' doctrine chair publicly defended Pope Leo XIV's theological authority and the church's just war tradition shortly after Vance's remark. OSV News, People and ABC News reported the exchange, making the dispute visible in national outlets and setting up a rare public clash between a senior U.S. political figure and the American Catholic hierarchy.

Key Highlights

Vice President JD Vance warned Pope Leo XIV to 'be careful' on theology.
Pope Leo XIV warned about people WHO 'manipulate religion' in remarks.
U.S. bishops' doctrine chair defended the church's just war tradition publicly.
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