The final moments of Pope Francis have left the world in awe and silence, as the video of his last public appearance during the Easter “Urbi et Orbi” blessing continues to circulate. The image of the frail Pontiff standing on the balcony of Saint Peter’s Basilica on Easter Sunday (April 20), delivering the traditional blessing to the city of Rome and the world, now resonates more deeply following news of his passing just a day later.
For Catholics around the world, the “Urbi et Orbi” is a powerful expression of the Church’s faith in the Resurrection. That Pope Francis, despite his failing health, chose to fulfill this sacred duty in his final hours is being seen by many as nothing short of a miracle—or a divine gift. His unwavering dedication to serving God and his flock until the very end is now being remembered as a final act of love and faith.
The Pope’s voice during the blessing was noticeably weak, but his message remained filled with compassion and peace. His words, now echoed in prayers and tributes across the globe, have become a source of comfort to millions mourning the loss of a shepherd who never ceased to serve.
Aside from his public blessing, Pope Francis also held a private meeting earlier that morning with U.S. Vice President JD Vance at his Vatican residence. Though the two had previous differences—particularly over immigration policies—their Easter meeting was marked by mutual respect and a shared celebration of the Resurrection. Vatican sources said the two exchanged greetings and discussed hopes for global peace.
Many are calling Pope Francis’s final appearance “chilling” not only for its timing, but for the powerful imagery it left behind—an aged spiritual leader, standing in the heart of Catholicism, blessing a world he would soon leave behind.
Now, as the Church prepares to lay him to rest, the memory of that final “Urbi et Orbi” stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment. Let us remember his words, reflect on his legacy, and pray for the eternal repose of Pope Francis, a humble servant who gave everything—even his final breath—to God and humanity.
This was Pope Francis’s last public appearance. His final gesture of love for the Church was the Urbi et Orbi blessing with which Catholics celebrate the Resurrection on Easter. Let us listen to his words and pray for the eternal repose of our shepherd. pic.twitter.com/F5Kr5T81Sq
— EWTN Vatican (@EWTNVatican) April 21, 2025