Pope Francis passed away on Monday at the age of 88, following a prolonged struggle with double pneumonia. His final public appearance was on Easter Sunday, where he showed remarkable determination despite his declining health.
Pope’s Final Message of Peace
That same day, the Pope shared what would become his final post on X (formerly Twitter), encapsulating his enduring message of faith and hope. He wrote: “Christ is risen! These words capture the entire meaning of our existence, for we were not made for death but for life.”
A Quiet Meeting with JD Vance
Later in the day, Pope Francis briefly met U.S. Vice President JD Vance at his Vatican residence to exchange Easter greetings. Though the meeting remained informal, it carried symbolic weight amid past tensions over U.S. immigration policies under the Trump administration—a stance the Vatican had previously criticized. Reports indicate the Pope declined an official meeting with Vance for this reason.
Today I met with the Holy Father Pope Francis. I am grateful for his invitation to meet, and I pray for his good health.
Happy Easter! pic.twitter.com/SIhU9gYQl2
— Vice President JD Vance (@VP) April 20, 2025
Despite this, the pontiff offered Vance a personal gesture by gifting three chocolate Easter eggs for his children. Vance, who was visiting Italy with his family, had already held formal talks with senior Vatican officials the day before—a meeting the Pope did not attend due to his fragile health.
ALSO READ: Pope Francis: His greatest achievements, controversies, and enduring global influence
Vance’s Tribute to the Pope
Following the Pope’s passing, Vice President Vance paid tribute, reflecting on their recent encounter on X.
“I just learned of the passing of Pope Francis. My heart goes out to the millions of Christians all over the world who loved him. I was happy to see him yesterday, though he was obviously very ill.” he said, also recalling the Pope’s compassionate homily at the start of the COVID‑19 pandemic.
Vance ended his message by saying “It was truly beautiful. May God rest his soul.”
I just learned of the passing of Pope Francis. My heart goes out to the millions of Christians all over the world who loved him.
I was happy to see him yesterday, though he was obviously very ill. But I’ll always remember him for the below homily he gave in the very early days…
— JD Vance (@JDVance) April 21, 2025
Easter Sunday: A Final Appearance
In a moving final appearance, Pope Francis surprised thousands of worshippers in St. Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday. Riding in his open-top popemobile, he waved to the crowd, blessed infants, and greeted the faithful warmly.
ALSO READ: Who will be the next Pope? Here are the possibilities
Although he delegated the Easter Mass to Cardinal Angelo Comastri, the Pope later appeared on the loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica to deliver the apostolic blessing in Latin. His voice, noticeably stronger than in recent weeks, was a source of comfort to many.
The Vatican estimated that more than 35,000 people attended the service, which was made even more vibrant by the colorful floral displays donated by the Netherlands.
In recent weeks, Pope Francis had scaled back public appearances to focus on recovery and respiratory therapy.
