The death of Pope Francis on April 20, 2025, at the age of 88 left the world in mourning. His passing, following a cerebral stroke and heart failure, marked the end of an era for the Catholic Church. Pope Francis, known for his humility, devotion to the marginalized, and tireless work, had made a significant impact throughout his papacy. Yet, his final moments, as shared by his doctor, offer a deeply personal and poignant glimpse into the Pope’s last days.
Dr. Sergio Alfieri, who was responsible for Pope Francis’ medical care, including his treatment during a bout with double pneumonia earlier in 2025, has now opened up about the final moments of the pontiff’s life. His revelations provide insights into Pope Francis’ final regrets, his dedication to his duties, and how he spent his last days.
The Final Moments: Pope Francis’ Health Decline
Pope Francis’ health had been fragile for months before his death. On Easter Monday, April 20, 2025, he passed away after suffering a cerebral stroke, which led to a coma and irreversible heart failure. Dr. Alfieri, who had been overseeing Pope Francis’ medical treatment, was summoned to the Vatican early on the morning of April 21. He received a call at 5:30 AM, which led him to rush to the pontiff’s side.
Upon arrival, Dr. Alfieri found Pope Francis conscious but unresponsive. The Pope had his eyes open but did not respond to stimuli, even painful ones. It became immediately clear to Dr. Alfieri that there was nothing more that could be done. He knew Pope Francis was in a coma and that the end was imminent.
While some officials suggested transporting the Pope back to the hospital for further treatment, Dr. Alfieri believed this would have been futile. He knew that a hospital trip at that stage would be of no benefit; Pope Francis would likely pass away during the journey. “It was one of those strokes that, in an hour, carries you away,” Dr. Alfieri later told La Repubblica.
The Pope’s condition had deteriorated rapidly, and the final moments of his life were spent in the comfort of his Vatican residence. Despite the severity of his condition, Pope Francis’ dedication to his role remained clear, even in his final hours.
Pope Francis’ Regret: The Foot-Washing Ritual He Couldn’t Complete
During the final days leading up to his death, Pope Francis continued to engage in his duties despite his declining health. Just days before, he had made a visit to the Regina Coeli prison in Rome, a tradition he maintained each year on Holy Thursday. The visit to the prison, where he greeted inmates and gave them Rosaries and pocket-sized Gospels, was part of his efforts to stay connected to the poor and marginalized, a hallmark of his papacy.
However, due to his health issues, Pope Francis was unable to perform the foot-washing ritual that he had done every Holy Thursday during his papacy. This act—symbolizing humility and service—was particularly meaningful to the Pope, as it mirrored the actions of Jesus Christ before the Last Supper.
“I have always liked coming to prison on Holy Thursday to do the washing of the feet like Jesus,” Pope Francis told the inmates during his visit. “This year, I cannot do it, but I want to be close to you. I pray for you and your families.”
It was this very foot-washing ritual that became a point of deep regret for Pope Francis. In his final moments, he confided to Dr. Alfieri that he felt disappointed for not being able to perform this ritual that had become a key part of his Holy Thursday observance. Dr. Alfieri recalled the Pope’s words, saying, “‘This time, I couldn’t do it,’ was the last thing he said to me.”
For Pope Francis, this was a symbolic gesture of his role as a servant to others. His regret about missing this ritual reflected his deep commitment to humility and his wish to serve those in need, even at the end of his life.
Pope Francis’ Final Days: The Return to Work
In the days leading up to his passing, Pope Francis had expressed that he wanted to return to his duties as pope. Despite being ordered to rest by his medical team after his discharge from the hospital in March 2025, Pope Francis continued to push himself to work, even if only in a limited capacity.
Dr. Alfieri recalled how, on the afternoon of Saturday, April 19, he had visited the Pope and brought him a pie—one of the Pope’s favorite treats. During their conversation, Pope Francis had appeared in good spirits. “I am very well, I have started working again, and I like it,” he told Dr. Alfieri. For Pope Francis, returning to work was not just a desire—it was part of his very identity as the Pope.
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