Silence fell over the Vatican this Monday morning. At 7:35 a.m., Pope Francis passed away at his residence in the Casa Santa Marta, in Rome. The official announcement was made by the camerlengo cardinal, Kevin Farrell.
The pontiff, who led the Catholic Church for almost twelve years, was 88 years old. His death occurred just hours after his last public appearance. It was during the Easter Sunday celebration in St. Peter’s Square.
The Last Blessing of Pope Francis: An Unexpected Farewell
Despite his delicate health, Pope Francis wanted to keep his appointment with the faithful. In a wheelchair and without oxygen, he appeared on the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. From there, he gave his last Urbi et Orbi blessing.
He asked Master of Pontifical Liturgical Celebrations Diego Ravelli to read the Easter message. Then he wished everyone present a “Happy Easter.” The gesture was applauded by the nearly 50,000 faithful gathered in the square.
After the blessing, he surprised everyone by getting into the popemobile. He toured the square for several minutes, greeting and blessing. He even stopped to bless some children, although his movements were visibly slow.
Unknowingly, that was to be his last public appearance