Pope Francis made his final public appearance on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, just one day before his death on Easter Monday. At 88, he had been battling severe respiratory issues, including double pneumonia and bronchitis, which led to multiple hospitalizations over the past year.Axios+5People.com+5Latest news & breaking headlines+5
Final Blessing and Public Appearance
On Easter Sunday, Pope Francis delegated the traditional Easter Mass to Cardinal Angelo Comastri. However, he made a surprise appearance to bless the faithful gathered in Saint Peter’s Square. This moment marked his first public engagement since March 23, when he was discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital after a prolonged stay due to his health issues. During that earlier appearance, he was seen in a wheelchair, visibly frail, as he waved and offered blessings to the crowd. Latest news & breaking headlines+2Wikipedia+2The Guardian+2CBS News+4ABC+4Catholic News Agency+4CatholicVote org+2Latest news & breaking headlines+2ABC+2
Meeting with Vice President J.D. Vance
Earlier on the same day, Pope Francis met with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance. Vance later described the Pope as “obviously very ill” during their meeting. Despite his condition, the Pope presented gifts, including Easter eggs and rosaries, to Vance’s children. This gesture highlighted his enduring commitment to personal connections and his role as a spiritual leader. People.com
Cause of Death and Legacy
Pope Francis passed away on April 21, 2025, due to a stroke and irreversible heart failure. His death occurred on Easter Monday, a day of profound significance in the Christian calendar. In his will, he requested a simple burial at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome, a church dear to him. His legacy is remembered for his humility, inclusivity, interfaith dialogue, environmental stewardship, and support for the marginalized and poor. Latest news & breaking headlines
Global Tributes
Following his passing, tributes poured in from around the world. Catholic churches held commemorative services, and leaders from various nations and faiths honored his contributions to peace and humanity. His death has prompted a period of mourning within the global Catholic community and beyond. Axios
For a visual tribute to Pope Francis’s life and papacy, the Associated Press has released a curated photo collection titled “Vatican Obit Pope Francis,” which includes significant images from his time as head of the Catholic Church.
