Francis's unexpected demise has left the world in shock, as he had made several appearances just days before, resonating with his faith and mission.
Pope Francis Passes Away at 7:35 a.m. After Unexpected Final Appearances
Pope Francis Passes Away at 7:35 a.m. After Unexpected Final Appearances
The beloved pontiff's death follows a brief resurgence in health after battling pneumonia.
April 21, 2025, 9:49 a.m. ET - Last month, the resilient spirit of Pope Francis offered hope to the Roman Catholic community when he was released from a lengthy hospital stay due to severe pneumonia affecting both lungs. While his health seemed precarious, his aides spoke of a new chapter in his papacy. However, the pope's death at 7:35 a.m. on Easter Monday arrived as a mix of surprise amidst his recent condition.
During his extended hospitalization from February to March, Francis faced life-threatening moments due to respiratory distress. His physician, who spoke of the miraculous nature of Francis's recovery, warned him of the need to take it slow. Despite these cautions, speculation circulated among Vatican insiders that he had been sent home to pass away in peace.
In the weeks leading up to his death, in a defiance of his doctor's advice for rest, Francis made several unanticipated public appearances that now seem to serve as heartfelt farewells. Just days before his passing, he was wheeled into St. Peter's Basilica, where he emotionally engaged with pilgrims and tourists. On Palm Sunday, he greeted the public gathered in St. Peter’s Square, and even visited a prison, meeting with around 70 inmates.
On Easter Sunday, not long before his passing, he met with Vice President JD Vance and delivered what would be his final appearance from the balcony at St. Peter’s Basilica. "Dear brothers and sisters, happy Easter," he proclaimed before Archbishop Diego Ravelli presented the traditional "Urbi et Orbi," urging peace and calling for an end to disarmament, a focus on fighting antisemitism, and the protection of migrants.
In a poignant conclusion to his Easter appearance, Francis blessed the crowd and made a final journey in the popemobile, despite his doctor's recommendations to avoid close contact with small children. In a touching moment, he paused to bless a newborn baby among the throngs of faithful that had gathered, marking a final act of compassion characteristic of his papacy.
During his extended hospitalization from February to March, Francis faced life-threatening moments due to respiratory distress. His physician, who spoke of the miraculous nature of Francis's recovery, warned him of the need to take it slow. Despite these cautions, speculation circulated among Vatican insiders that he had been sent home to pass away in peace.
In the weeks leading up to his death, in a defiance of his doctor's advice for rest, Francis made several unanticipated public appearances that now seem to serve as heartfelt farewells. Just days before his passing, he was wheeled into St. Peter's Basilica, where he emotionally engaged with pilgrims and tourists. On Palm Sunday, he greeted the public gathered in St. Peter’s Square, and even visited a prison, meeting with around 70 inmates.
On Easter Sunday, not long before his passing, he met with Vice President JD Vance and delivered what would be his final appearance from the balcony at St. Peter’s Basilica. "Dear brothers and sisters, happy Easter," he proclaimed before Archbishop Diego Ravelli presented the traditional "Urbi et Orbi," urging peace and calling for an end to disarmament, a focus on fighting antisemitism, and the protection of migrants.
In a poignant conclusion to his Easter appearance, Francis blessed the crowd and made a final journey in the popemobile, despite his doctor's recommendations to avoid close contact with small children. In a touching moment, he paused to bless a newborn baby among the throngs of faithful that had gathered, marking a final act of compassion characteristic of his papacy.
