The world is still coming to terms with the loss of Pope Francis, who passed away in the early hours of Monday, April 21, 2025. The pontiff, whose papacy was marked by humility, compassion, and a deep commitment to social justice, died quietly at dawn after spending his final day with loved ones and aides. Among the poignant final moments of his life was a quiet expression of gratitude to the one person who had been by his side through thick and thin—Massimiliano Strappetti, his personal healthcare assistant.
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| Pope Francis greeting the faithful on Easter Sunday (Vatican Media) |
Just hours before his death, Pope Francis had shown remarkable resilience. On Sunday, April 20, after delivering his Urbi et Orbi blessing to the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square, the Pope had taken one final, joyful ride in the popemobile. It was a brief, but meaningful moment of connection with the people he had so lovingly served throughout his papacy. "Thank you for bringing me back to the Square," Pope Francis said to Strappetti, his voice filled with gratitude.
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It was a poignant farewell from a man who had dedicated his life to the service of others. The Pope, ever aware of his frailty, was deeply appreciative of these simple, but cherished moments. After the ride, he had retired to his residence at the Casa Santa Marta for a quiet afternoon of rest, followed by a calm dinner. There was no indication that his health had deteriorated so dramatically.
However, early the next morning, Pope Francis suddenly fell ill, his condition worsening rapidly as the dawn broke. Despite the best efforts of his medical team and aides, the Pope passed away quietly at the age of 87. His death marked the end of a reign that had reshaped the Catholic Church and the way the world viewed the papacy.
A Lifelong Bond with Massimiliano Strappetti
Massimiliano Strappetti, the Pope’s personal nurse and healthcare assistant, played a crucial role in the final months of Francis’ life. It was Strappetti who, years earlier, had urged the Pope to undergo colon surgery, a decision that many credit with saving the pontiff’s life. Over the years, their professional relationship grew into a deep personal bond, and in 2022, Pope Francis formally appointed Strappetti as his personal healthcare assistant. From that point forward, Strappetti was not only responsible for monitoring the Pope’s health but was also a constant companion, ensuring that Francis’ daily needs were met, and offering comfort and companionship in times of physical and emotional strain.
The two had spent Easter Sunday together, with Strappetti remaining at the Pope’s side as they prepared for the traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing. In the days leading up to the blessing, Strappetti and Pope Francis took a quiet walk through St. Peter’s Basilica, where they reviewed the route the Pope would take when he appeared on the Central Loggia the following day. The moment was an intimate one, marking both a physical and spiritual reflection on the Pope’s legacy, as he reviewed the path that had brought him to this point in his papacy—a path that had taken him from the streets of Buenos Aires to the global stage, advocating for peace, justice, and the most vulnerable in society.
On that Sunday afternoon, after completing his duties, Pope Francis enjoyed a rare period of rest. He shared a quiet dinner with his aides and medical team, who were all hopeful that his condition was improving. His body, weakened by years of illness, had always remained fragile, but his spirit had remained steadfast. He had been deeply moved by the outpouring of affection from the faithful on Sunday, and as he lay in his room that evening, he was reflective and at peace with the work he had done.
A Quiet Passing
In the early hours of the morning, Pope Francis suddenly fell ill. Strappetti, who had been on constant watch, quickly alerted the medical team, but despite their best efforts, the Pope’s condition deteriorated rapidly. Strappetti remained by his side, offering comfort and prayers in the final moments.
When news of the Pope’s death broke, it was clear that the loss was profound—not only for Catholics but for the entire world. Pope Francis had redefined the papacy in many ways, breaking from tradition to embrace a more pastoral and approachable style of leadership. His calls for global solidarity, social justice, and care for the poor and marginalized had resonated with millions, and his personal humility and compassion had endeared him to people of all faiths.
In his final words to Strappetti, the Pope expressed his gratitude for the care and love he had received during his final years. "Thank you for bringing me back to the Square," he had said, acknowledging the gift of that final, joyful ride in the popemobile. It was a moment that symbolized the deep connection Pope Francis felt with the faithful, as well as his desire to give them one final blessing before his departure.
Preparing for His Final Rest
Pope Francis’ body was transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday, April 23, where it will lie in state for the faithful to pay their respects. A procession will carry the coffin from the Casa Santa Marta to St. Peter’s Square, where the public can visit the Pope’s body until Friday. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, will preside over the ceremony, which will include a prayer service as the body is moved from the chapel to the basilica.
The funeral Mass will take place on Saturday, April 26, at 10:00 AM in St. Peter’s Square. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the Dean of the College of Cardinals, will preside over the service, which will be attended by cardinals, patriarchs, bishops, and clergy from around the world. The liturgy will conclude with the Ultima commendatio and the Valedictio, marking the beginning of the Novemdiales—nine days of mourning and prayer for the repose of the Pope’s soul.
After the funeral, Pope Francis will be interred at the Basilica of St. Mary Major, in keeping with his wishes. His passing marks the end of an era for the Catholic Church, and as the world mourns, Pope Francis will be remembered not only for his leadership but also for his compassion, humility, and unwavering dedication to justice and peace.
As the faithful from around the world gather to bid farewell to Pope Francis, the message he leaves behind is one of love, inclusivity, and a call for a more compassionate world. His final words of gratitude to Strappetti will undoubtedly resonate with those who knew him best, but they also serve as a reminder of the profound connection he felt with the people he served—a bond that transcends death and will continue to inspire generations to come.
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Pope’s Farewell Ride in the Popemobile Touches the Hearts of Thousands
In a poignant final act of connection, Pope Francis offered a heartfelt surprise to the 50,000 faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square on Sunday. Following the traditional blessing from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, the late Pope took a memorable ride in the popemobile, his last appearance among the crowd.
Despite initial hesitation, Pope Francis sought the counsel of his trusted healthcare assistant, Mr. Strappetti. “Do you think I can manage it?” he reportedly asked, showcasing his humility and human vulnerability. Encouraged, he embarked on the journey that would encapsulate the spirit of his papacy.
The atmosphere in St. Peter’s Square was electrified as the Pope made his way through the crowd. With a gentle smile and outstretched hands, he greeted the faithful, paying particular attention to children. This emotional outing was especially significant, marking his first public appearance since his discharge from Gemelli hospital and a farewell to the public he so deeply cherished.
Tired but visibly content after the ride, Pope Francis expressed his gratitude to Mr. Strappetti with touching simplicity. “Thank you for bringing me back to the Square,” he said, encapsulating the love and dedication that defined his ministry.
The event served as a powerful reminder of the Pope’s deep bond with the people of God. Known for his warmth and accessibility, Pope Francis made human connection a cornerstone of his papacy. This final ride through the Square was more than a gesture; it was a celebration of faith, unity, and the enduring spirit of his mission.
As the Argentine Pope embraced the crowd for the last time, his legacy as a shepherd of compassion and humility was firmly etched in the hearts of those present. The moment will undoubtedly resonate as one of the most cherished memories of his time in the Vatican.
Pope Francis Passes Away Peacefully After Final Act of Devotion
Pope Francis, known for his humility, compassion, and profound connection with the faithful, passed away in the early hours of Monday, leaving a legacy of love and service. His final hours were marked by quiet dignity and a touching farewell to those closest to him.
After a restful Sunday afternoon and a peaceful dinner, the Pope began showing signs of a sudden illness around 5:30 AM. Immediate action was taken by his caregivers at the Casa Santa Marta, where he resided. Despite the swift response, the Pope’s condition deteriorated rapidly.
By 6:30 AM, the Pope had fallen into a coma. Witnesses recall his final gesture: a tender wave of farewell to Mr. Strappetti, his devoted healthcare assistant. Shortly thereafter, Pope Francis passed away quietly in his second-floor apartment. Those by his side reported that he did not suffer, and the end came swiftly and without distress.
Pope Francis’ passing, the day after Easter, holds profound symbolism for the faithful. Just the day before, he had offered his final Apostolic Blessing and embraced the crowd from the popemobile, a last act of love for the people he called his “walking companions.”
From the moment of his election on March 13, 2013, Pope Francis made it clear that his papacy would be defined by a deep connection with the “people of God.” He embraced humility, advocated for the marginalized, and sought to walk “together” with all. His death was as unassuming as his life: discreet, without prolonged suffering or public alarm—a fitting conclusion for a Pope who valued simplicity and intimacy.
The Vatican has announced that plans for his funeral will honor his wishes for a modest ceremony. Tributes have already begun pouring in from around the world, with leaders and faithful alike reflecting on the transformative impact of his papacy.
As the Church and its faithful mourn, Pope Francis' legacy of love, humility, and hope remains a guiding light. His life and death are a testament to his enduring commitment to walk hand in hand with humanity.
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Cardinal Farrell Confirms Passing of Pope Francis; Stroke Officially Cited as Cause
Vatican City — In a solemn announcement on Monday evening, April 21, 2025, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, officially confirmed the death of Pope Francis at 8:00 PM. The late Pontiff's passing marks a profound moment in the history of the Catholic Church, initiating a time of mourning and transition.
The announcement followed a dignified rite held in the chapel of Casa Santa Marta, where Pope Francis had spent his final years. In a deeply reverent ceremony, the Pope's body was placed into a coffin, witnessed by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals; members of the Pope’s family; and Dr. Andrea Arcangeli and Dr. Luigi Carbone, the Vatican’s leading health officials.
Dr. Arcangeli subsequently released a detailed medical report, confirming that the immediate cause of death was a stroke, which led to a coma and ultimately resulted in irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse. The report also highlighted Pope Francis's pre-existing health conditions, including acute respiratory failure due to multimicrobial bilateral pneumonia, multiple bronchiectases, high blood pressure, and Type II diabetes, underscoring the significant health challenges he faced in his later years.
The confirmation of the Pope's passing begins a profound period of reflection and mourning for the global Catholic community. As the faithful grieve, the Vatican prepares for the critical task of organizing a conclave to elect a new leader for the Church.
Pope Francis, known for his humility, progressive vision, and dedication to the marginalized, leaves behind a legacy of compassion and reform. His passing, on the heels of the Easter season—a period synonymous with renewal and hope—carries deep spiritual resonance for millions worldwide.
The Vatican is expected to release further details regarding funeral arrangements and the conclave in the coming days. As the Church honors the memory of Pope Francis, his impact on the faithful and his transformative leadership remain indelibly etched in the annals of history.
This solemn moment serves as a reminder of the enduring strength and continuity of the Church amidst change, as it prepares to elect the next Shepherd of its flock.