On Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, the 88-year-old pontiff, still recovering from a recent and serious case of pneumonia, surprised the faithful by blessing the crowd gathered at St. Peter’s Square for the Easter Mass.
While Cardinal Angelo Comastri, the retired archpriest of St. Peter’s Basilica, presided over the main Easter service, Pope Francis made a dramatic appearance from the central balcony of the basilica afterward.
Assisted in his wheelchair and flanked by aides, the Pope greeted the massive crowd, his voice noticeably stronger than in prior weeks.
The thousands in attendance responded with emotional cheers, calling out “Viva il Papa!” and “Bravo!” as they welcomed the Pope’s unexpected appearance.
Photographs from the day captured the Pope in a wheelchair, gently waving to the crowds below. Surrounded by four attendants, one of whom held his microphone in place, he offered a heartfelt message of hope and peace. “Dear brothers and sisters, Happy Easter,” he said, addressing the audience without the oxygen tubes that had been visible during previous appearances.
Despite his declining health, what came next shocked many. Pope Francis entered the open-air Popemobile, touring the square, waving to pilgrims, and pausing to bless babies handed to him by their parents. It was a display of resilience and devotion that now serves as a final act of spiritual leadership in the public eye.
A Brief Meeting with U.S. Vice President JD Vance
Earlier that same Easter Sunday, Pope Francis also met briefly with U.S. Vice President JD Vance at the Pope’s residence, Casa Santa Marta.
The meeting was described as a short Easter greeting. It followed earlier discussions between Vance and the Vatican secretary of state regarding pressing global issues such as immigration and armed conflict — subjects where the two leaders have historically held differing views.
A Quiet Outing That Went Viral Before His Death
In the days leading up to Easter, Pope Francis had already drawn attention during an unannounced outing inside St. Peter’s Basilica.
The video also revealed the pontiff using a discreet oxygen cannula, suggesting his respiratory issues were still ongoing. Yet, even in this subdued state, the Pope extended gestures of peace to those nearby as he was pushed in a wheelchair through the grand marble halls of the basilica.
The caption of the viral post read: “Pope Francis made a surprise visit to St Peter’s Basilica in a wheelchair while using his oxygen cannula. It was the first time he has been seen without his papal attire. Let’s keep praying for his recovery!”
This raw and intimate moment offered a rare look into the vulnerability of the leader of the Roman Catholic Church, showing the world a different side of the papacy — one of humility, struggle, and quiet strength.
Pope Francis Dies on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025
The Vatican officially confirmed the death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at his Vatican residence. News of his passing was met with tributes from religious leaders and political figures around the globe. Vatican News released a heartfelt statement marking the end of a deeply influential papacy.
As the world reflects on his legacy, the Pope’s final appearances — from his emotional Easter Sunday blessing to the viral video of him in simple attire — now stand as powerful reminders of his enduring spirit and commitment to faith, even in the face of physical decline.
