On April 21, 2025, the world mourned the passing of Pope Francis, who died unexpectedly from a stroke on Easter Monday. The news came as a shock to many, especially after the Pope had made a public appearance just a day earlier, delivering the traditional Easter blessing, "Urbi et Orbi," from St. Peter's Square. Despite his frail condition, he managed to address the faithful, showing resilience in the face of mounting health challenges.
ZDF reporter Andreas Postel, who was present during the Pope's final days, described the tension surrounding his health. According to Postel, Pope Francis had faced life-threatening situations multiple times during his stay at the Gemelli Hospital. "He had been advised to rest for two months after his release, but he resisted those recommendations," Postel noted. "He showed up in public several times, including just before Easter, despite being visibly weakened." This defiance raised concerns among his aides and the public about his ability to endure the demanding schedule.
On Easter Sunday, April 20, the Pope, despite his fragile state, rode in the Papamobile across St. Peter's Square. Postel recalled the moment, stating, "He looked exhausted, and we all feared he might not survive the day." Before embarking on the ride, he reportedly asked his personal assistant and nurse, Massimiliano Strappetti, "Do you think I can do it?" Strappetti reassured him, allowing the Pope to experience one last meaningful connection with the crowd. After the event, the Pope expressed gratitude to Strappetti, saying, "Thank you for bringing me back to the square," which would become his last words.
Tragically, the following morning, signs of a health crisis emerged around 5:30 AM. Reports indicated that Pope Francis fell into a coma shortly thereafter, passing away at 7:35 AM. Those present during his final moments described the experience as swift and without suffering. "He did not suffer; it all happened very quickly," insiders shared.
In the days following his death, arrangements for the Pope's funeral began. His burial was to take place in the Santa Maria Maggiore basilica, a location chosen by the Pope himself as his favorite church in Rome. The funeral procession, scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 2025, would span approximately six kilometers through the historic streets of Rome, passing by iconic landmarks such as the Piazza Venezia and the Colosseum. The procession would begin after a requiem mass at St. Peter's Basilica, attended by dignitaries and thousands of mourners.
As preparations unfolded, the Vatican reported that more than 130,000 people had already paid their respects to Pope Francis, with lines stretching up to two kilometers long. The Basilica remained open until 2:30 AM on April 25 to accommodate the throngs of mourners wishing to say their final goodbyes at his open coffin. On the final day for public viewing, the basilica welcomed visitors from 7 AM to 6 PM, after which the coffin would be ceremoniously closed by Cardinal Kevin Farrell.
During the procession, Pope Francis's body would be transported slowly through the streets of Rome, allowing the public to gather and pay tribute. The event was expected to draw hundreds of thousands of spectators, with large screens set up along the route to broadcast the proceedings. Security measures were extensive, with over 10,000 personnel deployed to ensure safety during the event.
The significance of Pope Francis's legacy was highlighted by the presence of key figures during the burial. Expected attendees included Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Camerlengo, and Giovanni Battista Re, the Dean of the College of Cardinals. Additionally, Strappetti, who had been by the Pope's side throughout his health struggles, was also set to attend, along with several of the Pope's personal secretaries and aides.
In the wake of his death, tributes poured in from around the globe, reflecting on Pope Francis's impact on the Catholic Church and the world. His commitment to social justice, interfaith dialogue, and pastoral care had endeared him to millions. Many remembered him for his emphasis on compassion and humility, traits that defined his papacy.
As the world prepares to bid farewell to Pope Francis, his final words resonate deeply: a simple expression of gratitude that encapsulated his connection to the people. His passing marks the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations.
