Pope Francis’s Surprise Appearance Hours Before His Passing

Pope Francis seemed and sounded stronger in his last hours as he made a surprise appearance on Easter Sunday, April 20, and delivered his final blessing over thousands of people.

At least 35,000 citizens had gathered in St. Peter’s Square when Pope Francis arrived in his open-top popemobile, riding through the square to wild and excited cheers from the crowd.

“‘Viva il Papa!’ (Long live the pope), ‘Bravo!’” the people shouted. Occasionally, he stopped and blessed babies that were brought up to him. “Brothers and sisters, Happy Easter!” he said.

Although Pope Francis did not celebrate Easter Mass in the piazza—having delegated the duty to Cardinal Angelo Comastri—he appeared afterward on the loggia balcony overlooking the Basilica entrance. There, he imparted the apostolic blessing in Latin.

During his Easter address, also known as the Urbi et Orbi, the pope called for peace in war-torn regions of the world, especially Ukraine, Yemen, and Gaza. He added that there could be no peace without freedom of religion, of thought, of expression, and genuine respect for the views of others.

Tragically, he passed away the following day, on April 21, 2025, at age 88. His final public appearance came just one month after he was discharged from the hospital following a five-week stay, during which he battled double pneumonia.