Vance presents himself as a Neo-Catholic: The "Hillbilly" goes to Communion

J.D. Vance, the U.S. Vice President and author of the 2016 bestseller "Hillbilly Elegy," is preparing to release his second book, "Communion: Finding My Way Back to Faith," on June 16. The book chronicles his personal journey from Protestantism to Catholicism, which he embraced in 2019, and explores the profound influence of his Catholic faith.

In "Communion," Vance delves into personal experiences, including how his faith helped him cope with the death of his close friend, activist Charlie Kirk. He also shares intimate details, such as his desire for a fourth child with his wife, influenced by Kirk's widow's wish for more children. The book's release comes as Vance navigates his prominent role in the White House, a position few could have predicted when his first book, which analyzed the economic despair and anger of the white working class that propelled Donald Trump to victory, became a surprise bestseller.

Vance's political star began to rise significantly after "Hillbilly Elegy" was published. Hailed by The New York Times as "a book to understand Trump's victory" and by The Washington Post as representing "the voice of the Rust Belt," the memoir offered insights into the sentiments of a crucial voting bloc. Vance, who previously worked for Peter Thiel's investment firm Mithril Capital, found himself at the center of political analysis, explaining the cultural and economic factors driving a significant segment of the American electorate.

The timing of "Communion" is notable, particularly given the ongoing public discourse surrounding faith and politics. While Vance has carefully navigated public statements, including a diplomatic stance during a public dispute between Trump and Pope Francis earlier this year, his new book offers a deeply personal exploration of his spiritual life. This follows his earlier work, which provided a sociological and personal lens on the Appalachian working class, cementing his image as a political figure connected to a specific demographic.