Pope Francis | Source: Getty Images

Vatican Shares Details About Pope Francis’ Last Words and Hours

Apr 26, 2025 - 02:00 P.M.

Among Pope Francis' final words before his passing was an expression of gratitude to his aide. He enjoyed a quiet dinner and afternoon before suddenly falling ill the next morning.

The late Pope Francis served as pontiff for over 12 years, advocating for numerous humanitarian causes and reforms. His last words reflect the humility with which he led throughout his papacy.

Pope Francis waves to the pilgrims gathered in St. Peter's Square for the general audience on June 13, 2018, in Vatican City, Vatican. | Source: Getty Images

According to Vatican News, the Holy Father thanked his personal healthcare assistant, Massimiliano Strappetti for encouraging him to visit the square for what would become his final public appearance.

"Thank you for bringing me back to the Square," he told him. The pair had gone together the previous day to review the route Pope Francis would take for his surprise appearance on Easter Sunday.

Pope Francis delivers his Urbi Et Orbi Blessing blessing from the balcony overlooking St. Peter's Square on April 20, 2025, in Vatican City, Vatican. | Source: Getty Images

He was initially hesitant, but with encouragement, he went ahead—and it was a glorious and meaningful occasion. According to the Pope—as reported by the Vatican—Strappetti saved his life by recommending colon surgery in 2022.

Pope Francis would later appoint Strappetti as his personal aide, a role he fulfilled until the Pope's final moments. Strappetti had also been by the Father's side during his 38-day stay at Gemelli Hospital in Rome.

Pope's personal health care assistant, Massimiliano Strappetti, stands next to Pope Francis before a lunch organised on the World Day of the Poor at the Paul VI audience hall on November 17, 2024, in The Vatican. | Source: Getty Images

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Following his visit to the square, Pope Francis rested on Sunday afternoon and enjoyed a quiet dinner. Then, during the early hours of Monday morning, he suddenly fell ill from a stroke.

Approximately an hour later, it is said he made a farewell gesture to Strappetti and fell into a coma. He would later die of cardiocirculatory collapse. His cause of death was confirmed via electrocardiographic thanatography.

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