Pope Francis Issues Emotional Final Message Before His Death at 88

Pope Francis touched millions of people worldwide with his unrelenting plea for peace, compassion, and freedom in a personal Easter letter he sent out only one day before his death,

marking a profoundly affecting end to his pontificate. In what would soon be known as his last speech, the 88-year-old Pontiff made his final public appearance on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, at the famous balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica.

A Last Presence Signified by Humanity and Hope

Even though he was clearly weak, Pope Francis stood in front of thousands of worshippers in Vatican City on Easter morning, speaking through an assistant who read his speech in his place.

The Pope pleaded for international solidarity, respect, and a truce in war areas in what has now become a moving farewell speech that cut across national and political boundaries.

The Pope’s speech opened with the words, “There can be no peace without freedom of religion, freedom of thought, and freedom of expression.” This served as a sobering reminder of the principles he had fought for his entire life.

Calling for Peace and Denouncing War

Pope Francis did not hesitate to address the suffering and unrest experienced worldwide, in keeping with his reputation as a world mediator.

He specifically brought up the humanitarian situation in Gaza, emphasizing the suffering of Christians and defenseless civilians as a result of the conflict.

He bemoaned, “We see in the numerous conflicts raging in different parts of the world a great thirst for death, for killing.”

In his message, he urged international leaders to “call a ceasefire, release the hostages, and come to the aid of a starving people that aspires to a future of peace,” expressing profound sorrow for both Israelis and Palestinians.

The Pope urged all sides to work relentlessly toward a “just and lasting peace,” expressing worry not just about the Middle East but also about the protracted conflict in Ukraine.

A Life of Charity and Service

Pope Francis’ death was certified by the Vatican at 7:35 a.m. on April 21, 2025, just one day later. After a protracted illness that included 38 days at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital due to complications from double pneumonia and bronchitis, he passed away. During this period, he was also reportedly diagnosed with kidney problems.

In a heartfelt message, Cardinal Kevin Farrell confirmed the Pope’s death on behalf of the Vatican:

Francis, the Roman bishop, arrived back at the Father’s house at 7:35 this morning. He devoted his entire life to serving the Lord and his church.

He instructed us to uphold the principles of the gospel with integrity, bravery, and love for all people, particularly the most vulnerable and impoverished.

“We commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite, merciful love of God, One and Triune,” he said in closing, offering a heartfelt farewell.

International Mourning and a Church in Transition In the immediate wake of the news, tributes from all around the world started to stream in, including a moving statement from King Charles III, who acknowledged Pope Francis as a “beacon of moral leadership in a time of deep uncertainty.”

In accordance with custom, the Catholic Church will now observe novemdiales, a nine-day period of mourning during which the late pope will be remembered with masses and prayers.

After this, the College of Cardinals will elect the next head of the Roman Catholic Church in a solemn ceremony known as the papal conclave.

The conclave, which is anticipated to start 15 days after the Pope’s passing, will allow 138 of the 252 Catholic cardinals in the globe to cast ballots.

A Heritage Rooted on Humility and Mercy

Pope Francis was the first Jesuit and the first Latin American pope. He was born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Since being elected in 2013, he has developed into a strong voice for the underprivileged, an advocate for interfaith understanding, and a persistent supporter of economic equality and climate justice.

His parting speech, which is full of love, care, and a call for peace, is a fitting homage to a life characterized by compassion and humility.

Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy of mercy, bravery, and unwavering hope for peace that is not only enshrined in doctrine but also carved into the hearts of the faithful as the world grieves the death of one of its most significant spiritual leaders.