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.
Despite his frailty, the Pope continued to carry out his papal duties, meeting with officials and even addressing thousands of people from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica just a day before his passing. He had a deep sense of responsibility and dedication to his role as the spiritual leader of millions, which is why his passing came as such a profound loss.
A Final Visit from US Vice President JD Vance
One of the final interactions that Pope Francis had before his death occurred on Easter Sunday, April 20, when he met with US Vice President JD Vance. This meeting, though brief, was symbolic of the Pope’s continuous engagement with world leaders and his commitment to global peace. It also illustrated how, even in his final days, Pope Francis was focused on maintaining diplomatic relationships and continuing his mission of peace.
The meeting with Vance was the last public engagement that Pope Francis would have, underscoring the sense of urgency he felt in fulfilling his role until the very end. His desire to meet with key figures and continue his work was a testament to his deep commitment to serving as a leader not just for the Catholic Church, but for the world at large.
Pope Francis’ Legacy: A Life of Service and Humility
Pope Francis’ final moments and his reflections on his regret for not completing the foot-washing ritual are emblematic of his life’s work. From his first moments as pope, he chose the name Francis, after St. Francis of Assisi, embodying a spirit of humility, compassion, and service to the poor.
His papacy was marked by a consistent call for reform, not just within the Church, but in the world at large. He worked tirelessly to improve the lives of the marginalized, calling for justice and compassion for the world’s most vulnerable populations. His legacy will undoubtedly live on through his actions, teachings, and the profound impact he had on both the Church and the global community.
Though his death leaves a void, Pope Francis’ influence will continue through the countless individuals and initiatives he inspired during his life. His regret at not being able to wash the feet of prisoners may seem small, but it encapsulates the essence of his papacy—always striving to serve, to humble himself, and to lift others up, even to the very end.
A Final Word from Dr. Alfieri
Dr. Sergio Alfieri, who stood by Pope Francis in his final moments, reflected on the Pope’s indomitable spirit, saying, “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 up until the last moment. He didn’t let us down.”
In a life filled with profound humility, service, and compassion, Pope Francis’ final moments were no different. His commitment to his faith, his role, and his mission was unwavering, and his passing marks the end of a remarkable era in the Catholic Church.
As the world mourns the loss of this beloved pontiff, we remember his message of peace, inclusivity, and service to all, especially the poor and marginalized. And while Pope Francis may no longer be with us, his legacy continues to inspire and guide those who follow in his footsteps.
