In the final hours of his life, Pope Francis — known across the globe for his humility and compassion — uttered a simple but deeply moving farewell.
His last words, recently revealed, capture the heart of a man who never strayed far from the people he served.
The Pope’s final message wasn’t addressed to a cardinal, a politician, or even a world leader.
Instead, it was for his longtime nurse and personal healthcare assistant, Massimiliano Strappetti — the man who had stood by him during some of his most fragile moments and when he suffered from double pneumonia.
“Thank you for bringing me back to the Square,” Pope Francis said softly, just hours after riding through St. Peter’s Square in the popemobile one final time, according to Vatican News. since surviving a five-week bout of double pneumonia.
Pope Francis’s last words to his carer
That final ride wasn’t even planned. After delivering his traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing on Easter Sunday, the Pope hesitated. He turned to Mr. Strappetti and asked, “Do you think I can manage it?” The ride, it turns out, was not just symbolic — it was a farewell.
Among thousands of faithful, the Pope smiled, waved, and embraced children — his last gesture of connection to the people he had promised to walk with since his election in 2013.
Later that day, he rested, had a quiet dinner, and went to sleep. At dawn, he became suddenly ill. He made a final gesture of farewell to Mr. Strappetti before slipping into a coma. By sunrise, he was gone.
Those present say his passing was peaceful. It came quickly — without pain, without drama. It was a quiet end, in line with the Pope’s lifelong desire for privacy, especially when it came to his health.
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Who is Massimiliano Strappetti?
At 54 years old, Massimiliano Strappetti has quietly built a reputation as one of the most trusted medical figures in the Vatican. According to Italian media, his journey began in the intensive care unit at the Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome, but his career soon took a unique turn — one that placed him at the heart of the Catholic Church.
Over the years, Strappetti has worked closely with not one, but three popes: John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and most recently, Pope Francis.
His decades of experience and calm presence earned him a place in the Vatican’s inner medical circle, eventually leading Francis to appoint him as his personal healthcare assistant in 2022 — a role of deep responsibility and trust.
Despite his crucial role, very little is known about Strappetti’s private life. His Facebook page is remarkably low-key, mostly showing family photos and a few nods to Lazio, his favorite soccer team.
There’s no public mention of his work with the Pope, no flashy titles — just a man deeply committed to care, service, and staying out of the spotlight.
Last moments of Pope Francis
Pope Francis passed away on Monday at the age of 88 after suffering a stroke followed by cardiac arrest. Earlier this year, he had battled a serious case of pneumonia that kept him hospitalized for 38 days.
Though he returned to the Vatican nearly a month ago and appeared to be on the mend, the Pope continued to push himself hard. Known for his tireless dedication, Francis ignored doctors’ recommendations to rest for two months and instead spent his final day working.
In his last moments, he didn’t ask for recognition. He gave thanks to those who had helped him survive. And in that simple “thank you,” the world got one final glimpse of the man who led with heart.
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