Yesterday, the world was met with the heartbreaking news of Pope Francis’s passing. The Vatican shared the announcement on Easter Monday, marking a solemn moment during what is usually a joyful celebration.
In celebration of Easter, immense crowds had gathered in Rome, flocking to the Vatican from across the globe. Many among them stood in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday, witnessing what would become the Pope’s final appearance in public.
On Easter Sunday, Pope Francis made a brief appearance at St. Peter’s Square to honor the holy occasion. Due to his ongoing health struggles, particularly a difficult battle with double pneumonia, he was unable to lead the Easter Mass himself. Instead, the service was conducted by a senior cardinal.
Cardinal Angelo Comastri led the ceremony before a massive crowd of devoted Catholics. From the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Francis greeted the faithful, offering them a heartfelt “Happy Easter” and extending his blessings.
Traditionally, the Pope delivers the “Urbi et Orbi” message—Latin for “To the City and the World”—on Easter. However, this year, the address was delivered by a Vatican archbishop, as Pope Francis remained seated in a wheelchair.
Despite his limited presence, the Pope’s words resonated deeply. He spoke of the alarming rise in global antisemitism and voiced strong condemnation of the dire situation in Gaza. Once again, he urged for an immediate ceasefire, leaving a powerful message that echoed far beyond the Vatican walls.
“In my heart are the people of Gaza, especially the Christian community, who continue to suffer as the brutal conflict brings more loss, devastation, and a worsening humanitarian crisis,” said what would become Pope Francis’s final Easter message. The address went on to stress the vital importance of religious freedom and mutual respect, reminding the world that peace cannot exist without these fundamental rights.
“True peace cannot exist without freedom of religion, freedom of thought, freedom of expression, and a deep respect for differing beliefs,” the message declared.
After the solemn message was delivered, Pope Francis was taken around the square in an open-top vehicle, offering a final wave to the gathered faithful.
Pope Francis passed away at the age of 88, following a prolonged period of declining health. Over the past few months, he had been in and out of Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he spent a full month before being discharged just four weeks ago.
Although he returned home, doctors warned that he still needed ample time to fully recover from the severe illness he had faced.
His frail condition forced him to step back from most of the Holy Week observances—something that hadn’t happened since his papal election in 2013. He was notably absent from key events such as the Stations of the Cross at the Colosseum on Good Friday, the Easter Vigil on Saturday, and the traditional foot-washing ceremony on Holy Thursday, all of which were carried out by cardinals in his place.
Still, in a touching gesture, the Pope made a brief appearance on Saturday to greet the pilgrims gathered in Rome.
Pope Francis leaves behind a powerful and lasting legacy—one marked by compassion, integrity, and unwavering faith. His memory will live on in the hearts of millions around the world.
Feel free to share this with anyone who would want to reflect on his final message and the profound words he left us with.