By Courtney Mares
Vatican City, Apr 22, 2025 / 10:12 am
On Easter Sunday, Pope Francis delivered his last public blessing to the world from the loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica, where he was first introduced as pope 12 years ago.
Following his passing, the Vatican shared more details about the pope’s final moments. Vatican state media reported that among his last words were a simple “Grazie” or “Thank you,” directed at Massimiliano Strappetti, his nurse and personal health assistant since 2022.
Francis expressed gratitude to Strappetti for encouraging him to greet the crowd from the popemobile on Easter Sunday, following the traditional “urbi et orbi” blessing. This was the first time he had used the popemobile since his hospitalization earlier in the year.
His final public words were a heartfelt “Brothers and sisters, happy Easter.” The 88-year-old pope spent the rest of Easter day resting and enjoying a peaceful dinner.
However, on Monday, April 21 at 5:30 a.m. local time, the pope’s health suddenly deteriorated, leading to immediate medical attention.
