Pope Francis’ passing on April 2, 2025, was a moment of deep sorrow for millions of people around the world. In his final moments, the pope displayed a quiet yet profound gesture of farewell to those closest to him, especially his trusted nurse, Massimiliano Strappetti. This simple but emotional moment occurred just before the pope slipped into a coma and passed away shortly afterward.
A Loyal Caregiver During Pope Francis’ Illness
Massimiliano Strappetti, Pope Francis’ personal nurse since 2022, played an integral role in caring for the pontiff during his illness. Strappetti was by the pope’s side during his hospitalization for double pneumonia in March 2025, which kept him in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital for over a month. According to the Vatican News, Strappetti watched over the pope round-the-clock, ensuring he received the care and comfort needed during his recovery.
Following his hospitalization, Strappetti continued to assist Pope Francis during his recovery at Casa Santa Marta, the Vatican guesthouse where the pope lived. The relationship between the two grew close, and Strappetti became not only a caregiver but also a trusted companion to the pope.
A Touching Moment of Farewell
In the early hours of April 2, Pope Francis began showing signs of worsening health. By 5:30 AM, those monitoring his condition were filled with concern as his condition deteriorated. Less than an hour later, Pope Francis raised his frail hand in a final gesture to Strappetti, a simple yet meaningful farewell.
The Vatican described the pope’s passing as sudden but peaceful, with no extended suffering. “According to those who were with him in his final moments, he did not suffer. It all happened quickly,” reported Vatican News. This was in keeping with the pope’s nature—always private about his health and reserved in his public life.
Pope Francis died at 7:35 AM, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, humility, and service to the Church and the world.
A Final Public Appearance: Pope Francis’ Last Ride in the Popemobile
Just weeks before his passing, Pope Francis made a significant and unexpected public appearance. Despite his frailty after battling double pneumonia, the pope made a brief but meaningful return to St. Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday 2025. The pontiff appeared in his Popemobile, waving at the 50,000 faithful who gathered in the square.
Before the appearance, Pope Francis expressed concern about his physical ability to manage such a public outing. “Do you think I can manage it?” he asked Strappetti, seeking reassurance. Despite being visibly weak and exhausted, Pope Francis chose to greet the crowds for about 15 minutes. His warmth and smile conveyed a message of resilience and love, a final act of service to the people who had supported him throughout his papacy.
Afterward, the pope returned to Casa Santa Marta to rest. His expression of gratitude toward Strappetti highlighted the deep bond between the two. “Thank you for bringing me back to the Square,” the pope said, reflecting his appreciation for his dedicated caregiver.
The Final Days: Pope Francis’ Quiet Passing
The pope’s decision to allow others to take the lead was not just a moment of humility but also a demonstration of strategic wisdom. At the Mass that followed his Popemobile appearance, Pope Francis delegated the responsibility to Cardinal Angelo Comastri. This decision was a reminder of the pope’s belief in the importance of knowing when to rest and let others step forward, especially during times of personal weakness.
Following his emotional visit to the crowds, Pope Francis spent the remainder of the day quietly, enjoying a private meal and resting. However, his health took a sharp turn for the worse in the early morning hours, leading to his final gesture.
As Pope Francis raised his hand to bid farewell to Strappetti, it was a symbol of the deep bond they shared and a testament to the pope’s ability to maintain grace even in his final moments. His death was not marked by public spectacle but by a quiet dignity that reflected his humble nature.
Pope Francis’ Legacy
Pope Francis’ passing marks the end of a papacy that transformed the Catholic Church in many ways. His focus on social justice, compassion for the poor, and commitment to environmental stewardship made him a beloved figure among Catholics and non-Catholics alike. His teachings on mercy, interfaith dialogue, and the importance of humility resonated deeply with people around the world.
Pope Francis will be remembered not only for his leadership but also for his personal warmth, his empathy, and his deep connection to the people he served. Even in his final moments, his gesture toward Strappetti encapsulated the deep love and care he extended to others throughout his life.
As the world mourns the loss of this remarkable leader, we also remember his legacy of kindness, humility, and service. His final gesture of farewell to his nurse is a poignant reminder of the importance of human connection, love, and compassion, even in life’s most difficult moments.
Sources:
- Vatican News – https://www.vaticannews.va
- Catholic News Agency – https://www.catholicnewsagency.com
- BBC News – https://www.bbc.com
