VATICAN CITY (AP) — Pope Francis expressed gratitude for the opportunity to greet a large crowd in St. Peter’s Square on Easter, just a day before his passing, despite his health concerns, according to Vatican News.
The 88-year-old Argentine pope, who had been recuperating after a five-week hospitalization for pneumonia, died Monday. He made his last public appearance on Sunday, giving a blessing and traveling through the famous square in his popemobile.
Pope Francis had initial doubts about participating in the ride. “Do you think I can manage it?” he asked his personal health assistant, Massimiliano Strappetti, as reported by Vatican News. He was assured, allowing him to connect with people, particularly children, while moving through a crowd of approximately 50,000. After the event, he expressed his gratitude to Strappetti, stating, “Thank you for bringing me back to the square,” according to the news outlet.
The following morning, around 5:30 a.m., Francis showed signs of illness and slipped into a coma an hour later, Vatican News reported. His Easter appearance, from the same loggia where he was introduced as the first pope from the Americas on March 13, 2013, marked a poignant end to his 12-year papacy, characterized by efforts to reform the Church and focus on the needs of the poor.
Upcoming Funeral Arrangements
Pope Francis’ funeral will take place on Saturday at 10 a.m. in St. Peter’s Square, officiated by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the Dean of the College of Cardinals. U.S. President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump plan to attend, along with Argentine President Javier Milei. The pope will lie in state beginning Wednesday at St. Peter’s Basilica, where mourners are expected to pay their respects.
Following current protocols, the conclave for selecting his successor is set to commence between May 5 and 10.
Remembering Pope Francis
“He truly gave everything he had, up to the end,” remarked Sister Nathalie Becquart, one of the Vatican’s senior women leaders. Cite while acknowledging the pope’s last Easter address, she noted, “He really walked with his people.” Meanwhile, Italian Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi commented on Francis’ commitment to advancing the role of women within the Church, indicating that this focus would be among his greatest legacies.
