In the final moments of his life, Pope Francis , known worldwide for his simplicity and empathy, left a final message that has deeply touched those who admired him. His final words, addressed to someone very close to him but far from the public eye, have recently been revealed and have caused a wave of emotions both inside and outside the Vatican.
Far from delivering a speech to the crowd or saying goodbye amidst symbols of power, the Pope chose to express his gratitude to the person who had silently accompanied him during his most fragile years. This was Massimiliano Strappetti , his personal nurse, whom he had known for years and who had been by his side during key moments of his health, including his difficult battle with double pneumonia .
In a soft, weary voice, the pontiff said, “Thank you for bringing me back to St. Peter’s Square ,” referring to his final stroll through the Vatican aboard the Popemobile. That trip, filled with greetings, smiles, and affectionate gestures toward the faithful, was improvised. It wasn’t on the agenda. But he insisted on doing it after the Urbi et Orbi blessing on Easter Sunday. Before leaving, he even asked, “Do you think I’ll be able to do it?” —demonstrating the fragility of his condition and, at the same time, his firm desire to connect with the people once again.
During that journey, the Pope greeted children , shared smiles, and shook hands, as if he knew it was his public farewell. That evening, he rested, had a leisurely dinner, and retired to sleep. At dawn, his condition deteriorated rapidly. Before slipping into a coma, according to sources close to him, he made a farewell gesture to Strappetti, who remained by his side until the end. It was a silent, uneventful, and completely serene farewell , just as he had always hoped.
The story of Massimiliano Strappetti is also worth telling. At 54 , this Roman nurse has spent much of his career caring for the most important figures in the Church. He started in the intensive care unit of the Gemelli Polyclinic , but his professionalism and discretion led to his being summoned by the Vatican. Throughout his professional life, he has served three popes: John Paul II, Benedict XVI , and finally, Francis .
In 2022, the Pope decided to formalize his trust in him, naming him his personal health assistant . Since then, he has been his discreet shadow, present during the pontiff’s most vulnerable moments. Despite his central role in the health of the leader of the Catholic Church, Strappetti has preferred to stay out of the public eye. His social media profile barely shows family moments and his Lazio fanaticism , with no reference to his work at the Vatican.
The Pope died at the age of 88 , following a sudden health complication related to a stroke followed by cardiac arrest . Although he had been discharged weeks earlier after a long hospitalization for pneumonia, Francis returned to his duties without respite. Doctors had suggested rest, but he preferred to devote his time to continuing to work.
In his final days, he didn’t seek the limelight or tributes. His only concern was to thank those who had provided him with care and support. That simple word, “thank you ,” was his farewell. A small word, but loaded with meaning, that sums up a life dedicated to service, humility, and love for his neighbor.
Today, as the Catholic world bids him farewell, many find solace in knowing that his final expression was one of gratitude. Further proof that, even in his twilight, Pope Francis remained faithful to his deepest essence: humanity .
