As the world mourns, specific details about Pope Francis’ last hours have surfaced, exposing a heartfelt farewell and very private final remarks.
Pope Francis silently but profoundly bid farewell to Massimiliano Strappetti, the nurse who had been his steadfast support system during his illness, by lifting his hand from his bedside in the calm of his final moments.
Pope Francis had just said, in his last known words, “Thank you for bringing me back to the Square.” Strappetti, who had evolved into much more than just his caretaker, was the target of these kind remarks. Strappetti gained the Pope’s strong trust and gratitude when he once suggested a life-saving colon operation. As a key player in his latter years, Strappetti was named Pope Francis’ personal healthcare aide in 2022.
Strappetti remained by the Pope’s side during his hospitalisation in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital and then at Casa Santa Marta, showing constant attention and care. In what would be his last public appearance, Strappetti joined Pope Francis on Easter Sunday for his historic Urbi et Orbi blessing.
The Pope’s planned route to St. Peter’s Basilica’s Central Loggia was thoroughly examined by the two the day before the event. Pope Francis had intended to ride in the popemobile following the blessing in order to surprise the 50,000 people assembled in the square. Confused at his own strength, the pope asked Strappetti in a low voice, “Do you think I can manage it?” Encouraged to make that last triumphal tour, Pope Francis embodied the intimacy with the people that characterised his papacy by welcoming the faithful and especially interacting with youngsters.
Pope Francis, clearly exhausted but satisfied after this profound encounter, thanked Strappetti profusely, saying, “Thank you for bringing me back to the Square.” After a peaceful meal that night, he went to bed.
The next morning, at around 5:30 a.m., Pope Francis showed unexpected symptoms of illness. Within an hour, he fell into a coma despite prompt medical attention. His final goodbye to Strappetti was a brief wave before he passed out. Pope Francis died quietly and painlessly at 7:35 a.m. His dignified and discrete demise was in keeping with his modest demeanour.
The Pope’s death was certified by Dr. Andrea Arcangeli, Director of Health and Hygiene for Vatican City State, to have been caused by a stroke, followed by an irreparable cardiocirculatory collapse and a coma. The Holy See Press Office also provided a thorough medical report that highlighted Pope Francis’ complicated medical history, which included diabetes, high blood pressure, and respiratory problems.
JD Vance, the vice president of the United States, paid a separate, moving visit to the Vatican just before Pope Francis passed away. During their brief but important meeting, Vance gave the ailing Pope a cordial greeting, acknowledged his health issues, and ended with a sincere “God bless you.” Despite being brief, this contact was emotionally significant because of the events that transpired.
Gifts from Pope Francis to Vance’s family were part of the Vice President’s visit, a heartwarming gesture that demonstrated the pope’s love despite his weakness. After the Pope’s passing, Vance posted a moving remembrance, considering their last meeting: “I recently found out about Pope Francis’s death. The millions of Christians throughout the world who adored him are in my thoughts and prayers. Because of the homily he delivered in the early days of COVID, I will never forget him. It was extremely lovely. May God grant him eternal rest.
These personal insights into Pope Francis’ last days show a man whose kindness, modesty, and warmth persisted right up until the end.
