Vice President JD Vance to Speak at National Catholic Prayer Breakfast

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Vice President JD Vance is set to deliver remarks at the 20th annual National Catholic Prayer Breakfast (NCPB) on Friday, February 28, 2025, in Washington, D.C. This event is significant as it marks Vance’s first address as vice president, following his attendance in previous years as a U.S. senator.

In a statement released ahead of the breakfast, Vance expressed his honor to represent the Biden administration’s advocacy for people of faith across the country. “Last year, I was moved to witness the joyful devotion of over a thousand Catholics praying for the future and success of our country. Thanks to their faithful prayers, hope has returned to America again,” he said.

NCPB Chairman Mark Randall praised Vance’s participation, remarking, “We are thrilled to welcome fellow Catholic JD Vance back, now as vice president, for our 20th annual gathering of fellowship and prayer. His presence is a sign of hope and openness to Catholic values and all the good that they bring to our entire nation.”

The event will take place at the D.C. Convention Center, located at 801 Mount Vernon Place NW. Doors will open at 6:00 a.m. ET, with the speaking agenda commencing at 7:00 a.m. ET. Vance is scheduled to speak at 8:00 a.m. ET. All attendees must RSVP ahead of the event.

This year’s breakfast will feature keynote speaker Monsignor James Shea, the president of the University of Mary in Bismarck, North Dakota. The program includes the awarding of the “Christifideles Laici Award” to New Jersey Representative Chris Smith. This award recognizes laypersons demonstrating commendable service to the Church. Smith has been noted for his advocacy on the House Committee on Foreign Affairs for the religious persecuted and against human trafficking.

Established by the NCPB, the award aims to honor those who follow St. John Paul II‘s call to propagate the Gospel in innovative ways. Smith will be the sixth recipient of this accolade.

The NCPB events are unified under a theme of “hope,” resonating with the sentiments of many Catholics as the nation embarks on a new political era. This gathering, amid various societal pressures, seeks to inspire solidarity and commitment to faith.

Notably, the breakfast comes at a time when Pope Francis is hospitalized, raising concerns over his health. These events emphasize a collective hope not only for political leadership but for spiritual guidance from the Holy See.