On Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, Pope Francis made what would be his final public appearance — a moment now remembered with deep reverence around the world. Just one day before his death, the 88-year-old pontiff, still recovering from a severe bout of pneumonia, surprised the faithful by blessing thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square.
Although he had entrusted the main Easter service to Cardinal Angelo Comastri due to his health, Pope Francis later appeared on the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. Supported by aides and seated in a wheelchair, he addressed the crowd with a message of peace and hope. His voice, though fragile in recent weeks, rang out stronger that day — drawing loud cheers and chants of “Viva il Papa!”
The Pope’s appearance defied expectations. Dressed in his traditional white papal garments, he smiled and waved warmly at the faithful. Then, in a remarkable gesture, he entered the Popemobile and rode around the square, stopping to bless children and wave to the crowd — a powerful symbol of devotion and connection, even amid illness.
That same day, Pope Francis met briefly with U.S. Vice President JD Vance at his Vatican residence. Their meeting, described as a short Easter greeting, came after Vance held discussions with Vatican officials on key global issues — areas where he and the Pope had previously differed in opinion.
The following day, Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, the Vatican confirmed the Pope’s passing at his residence in Casa Santa Marta. The news was met with global sorrow and heartfelt tributes, with many online sharing prayers and memories of his final appearance.
Earlier in April, another video of the Pope had drawn widespread attention. In a rare moment of vulnerability, he was filmed being wheeled through St. Peter’s Basilica in casual clothing, without his traditional papal attire. Wearing black pants, a striped shawl, and an oxygen cannula, he offered quiet gestures of peace to those around him. The informal look, combined with his weakened condition, sparked concern and discussion on social media.
Many wondered about his health and speculated whether the change in appearance symbolized something more profound. Some questioned if it signaled his readiness to step down, while others saw it as a reflection of his humility and humanity.
The Vatican had been transparent about Pope Francis’ health challenges. In February, he was hospitalized with bronchitis at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital. Public appearances were canceled, and medical staff conducted extensive testing. Despite this, the Pope continued working and speaking with visitors.
In March, on the 12th anniversary of his election, Pope Francis remained hospitalized. Doctors celebrated the milestone with a birthday cake, but the event underscored the seriousness of his condition. He continued receiving intensive respiratory therapy and was on a careful recovery path.
A few weeks later, Vatican doctors announced his steady improvement and released him from the hospital. His prognosis had stabilized, and though still fragile, he returned to Casa Santa Marta for continued recovery. Videos showed him waving to supporters outside the hospital, smiling and offering gratitude.
Despite health setbacks, Pope Francis resumed many of his duties, welcoming visitors including King Charles III and Queen Camilla. His energy remained focused on his mission, even as his physical strength waned.
The Pope’s death came as a shock, following what many saw as signs of recovery. His Easter appearance — brave, moving, and filled with spiritual warmth — now stands as a final testament to his strength, faith, and love for the people he served.
From the grandeur of the Vatican to the quiet corridors of hospitals, Pope Francis showed the world what it means to lead with compassion, vulnerability, and unwavering belief. His final days were marked not by titles or ceremony, but by a man embracing his humanity and offering hope until the very end.
