The world was deeply shaken by the passing of Pope Francis on April 20, 2025, at the age of 88, marking the end of an era for the Catholic Church. His death, following a cerebral stroke and heart failure, brought to a close the remarkable papacy of a leader known for his humility, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the marginalized. Yet, in the days leading up to his passing, the Pope’s final moments revealed a deeply personal and poignant side to the man who had dedicated his life to serving others.
Dr. Sergio Alfieri, who had cared for Pope Francis throughout his illness, including during a challenging battle with double pneumonia earlier in 2025, shared intimate details about the Pope’s last days. His reflections offer a window into the final regrets and devotion of a man who gave everything to his faith and his mission.
The Final Decline: Pope Francis’ Last Days
Pope Francis’ health had been fragile for months before his death. On Easter Monday, April 20, 2025, a cerebral stroke left him in a coma, followed by irreversible heart failure. Dr. Alfieri was called to the Vatican early on April 21, and upon arrival, he found the Pope conscious but unresponsive—his eyes open, yet unreactive to stimuli, even painful ones. It was clear that Pope Francis’ condition was terminal, and while some officials suggested transporting him to the hospital, Dr. Alfieri believed it would be futile. “It was one of those strokes that, in an hour, carries you away,” Dr. Alfieri later reflected.
Pope Francis spent his final moments in the comfort of his Vatican residence, where his steadfast devotion to his duties remained evident, even in the face of his own decline.
A Deep Regret: The Foot-Washing Ritual He Couldn’t Complete
Despite his worsening health, Pope Francis remained committed to his role as a servant leader. Just days before his passing, he had visited the Regina Coeli prison in Rome, continuing his annual Holy Thursday tradition of washing the feet of prisoners—a symbolic act reflecting Christ’s humility. Unfortunately, due to his declining condition, the Pope was unable to perform this ritual in 2025, a moment that would become one of his deepest regrets.
“I have always liked coming to prison on Holy Thursday to do the washing of the feet like Jesus,” the Pope had told the inmates. “This year, I cannot do it, but I want to be close to you. I pray for you and your families.” As the days passed, Pope Francis confided in Dr. Alfieri, expressing his disappointment: “This time, I couldn’t do it,” were his final words to the doctor. This poignant regret revealed the profound humility and commitment to service that defined his papacy.
A Relentless Return to Work
Even in his final days, Pope Francis was determined to fulfill his duties. After being discharged from the hospital in March 2025, his medical team advised rest, but the Pope pushed himself to resume his work. On April 19, Dr. Alfieri visited him and was pleased to find the Pope in good spirits, saying, “I am very well, I have started working again, and I like it.” This drive to serve, even in the face of illness, underscored the Pope’s devotion to his role. Just a day before his death, he addressed thousands of people from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, a testament to his dedication to his flock.
A Final Meeting: US Vice President JD Vance
One of Pope Francis’ final public engagements occurred on Easter Sunday, April 20, when he met with U.S. Vice President JD Vance. This brief but symbolic encounter reflected the Pope’s ongoing commitment to global peace and diplomacy, even in his last days. Despite his declining health, the Pope’s desire to meet with key leaders and continue his work demonstrated his relentless spirit to serve the greater good.
Pope Francis’ Legacy: A Life of Service and Humility
Pope Francis’ final moments encapsulated the essence of his papacy—his life was marked by a deep commitment to serving the poor, the marginalized, and those in need of compassion. From the moment he chose the name Francis, after St. Francis of Assisi, he embodied a spirit of humility and selfless service. Throughout his papacy, he called for reform, justice, and compassion for the world’s most vulnerable populations, leaving a legacy that will endure long after his passing.
Though his death leaves a void, Pope Francis’ influence continues through the countless lives he touched and the initiatives he inspired. His regret over missing the foot-washing ritual may seem small in the grand scheme, but it serves as a powerful symbol of his unwavering dedication to humility and service, even at the end of his life.
Dr. Alfieri’s Reflection: A Pope Until the End
Dr. Alfieri, who stood by Pope Francis until his final breath, recalled the Pope’s indomitable spirit: “He [was] the Pope, going back to work was part of his treatment, and he was never exposed to danger. We knew that he wanted to go home to be Pope until the last moment. He didn’t let us down.”
Pope Francis’ passing marks the end of an era for the Catholic Church, but his message of peace, inclusivity, and service will continue to resonate. His legacy will inspire generations to come, reminding us all of the power of humility, service, and the importance of lifting others up, even in the final moments of life.
