Despite health setbacks, Pope Francis's final appearances showcased his commitment to the faithful.
Pope Francis Passes Away at 88 Following Final Easter Blessing
Pope Francis Passes Away at 88 Following Final Easter Blessing
The pontiff died on the morning after Easter Sunday, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and resilience.
April 21, 2025, 11:25 a.m. ET
In a poignant turn of events, Pope Francis, beloved leader of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away at 7:35 a.m. on Monday, mere hours after celebrating Easter. The news comes less than a month after he was discharged from a hospital where he battled severe pneumonia, a health crisis that had left him in critical condition.
Revered for his unpredictability, Francis's death felt both sudden and anticipated. His recent hospitalization saw him face respiratory failures that had physicians expressing both hope and caution regarding his recovery. While his aides tried to emphasize a new chapter in his papacy following his discharge, the Pope himself seemed to suggest farewell gestures through his uncharacteristic public appearances.
In a remarkable display of tenacity, Francis surprised visitors at St. Peter's Basilica just days before his passing, praying in front of the altar, and greeted thousands gathered in St. Peter's Square for Palm Sunday. Just days ago, he even ventured into the local prison to connect with inmates, illustrating his unwavering commitment to outreach and inclusion.
On Easter Sunday, the Pope had a heartfelt meeting with Vice President JD Vance and made a final appearance from the iconic balcony at St. Peter's Basilica. During this appearance, he delivered his traditional Easter message, which urged for peace, highlighted the need for protection of migrants, and condemned antisemitism, embodying the advocating spirit he maintained throughout his papacy.
Following his Easter prayers, the Pope, disregarding medical advice to remain isolated, made a momentous journey in the popemobile, blessing families and even taking a moment to bless a newborn baby among the excited crowds. His unexpected actions, now viewed in the light of his passing, resonate deeply as a testament to his dedication to his faith and followers.
This concludes the poignant chapter of Pope Francis's life, one that will be remembered for its spirit of compassion and unwavering love for humanity.
In a poignant turn of events, Pope Francis, beloved leader of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away at 7:35 a.m. on Monday, mere hours after celebrating Easter. The news comes less than a month after he was discharged from a hospital where he battled severe pneumonia, a health crisis that had left him in critical condition.
Revered for his unpredictability, Francis's death felt both sudden and anticipated. His recent hospitalization saw him face respiratory failures that had physicians expressing both hope and caution regarding his recovery. While his aides tried to emphasize a new chapter in his papacy following his discharge, the Pope himself seemed to suggest farewell gestures through his uncharacteristic public appearances.
In a remarkable display of tenacity, Francis surprised visitors at St. Peter's Basilica just days before his passing, praying in front of the altar, and greeted thousands gathered in St. Peter's Square for Palm Sunday. Just days ago, he even ventured into the local prison to connect with inmates, illustrating his unwavering commitment to outreach and inclusion.
On Easter Sunday, the Pope had a heartfelt meeting with Vice President JD Vance and made a final appearance from the iconic balcony at St. Peter's Basilica. During this appearance, he delivered his traditional Easter message, which urged for peace, highlighted the need for protection of migrants, and condemned antisemitism, embodying the advocating spirit he maintained throughout his papacy.
Following his Easter prayers, the Pope, disregarding medical advice to remain isolated, made a momentous journey in the popemobile, blessing families and even taking a moment to bless a newborn baby among the excited crowds. His unexpected actions, now viewed in the light of his passing, resonate deeply as a testament to his dedication to his faith and followers.
This concludes the poignant chapter of Pope Francis's life, one that will be remembered for its spirit of compassion and unwavering love for humanity.
