In his final days, Pope Francis expressed a profound and peaceful view of death. Just two months before his passing, the Pope described death not as an end, but as a “new beginning.” This remarkable statement, shared in a preface he wrote for a book by Cardinal Angelo Scola, reflects his deep faith and understanding of life and eternity.
The passing of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, after battling health issues for several months, shocked the world. His death came after a cerebral stroke that led to a coma and eventually heart failure. In this article, we explore Pope Francis’ final message, his beliefs about death, and his legacy as one of the most influential religious figures of the 21st century.
A Spiritual Leader’s Final Days
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, led the Catholic Church with dedication, humility, and compassion. As the 226th pope, he was a beloved figure known for his openness and progressive stance on many issues, including social justice, climate change, and immigration.
Despite struggling with serious health issues in recent years, Pope Francis continued to work tirelessly for the Church, often disregarding advice from doctors to rest. His health issues included a severe case of pneumonia earlier this year, which kept him hospitalized for 38 days. After his recovery, he returned to the Vatican, only to continue his work, including a final appearance in St. Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday, where he delivered his traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing.
On his final day, Pope Francis appeared frail but determined. He spent time greeting the crowd, smiling, and embracing children, an act of kindness that was characteristic of his papacy. Afterward, he had a quiet dinner and went to sleep, unaware that he would soon fall gravely ill.
Pope Francis. Credit / Getty Images
The Pope’s Final Gesture of Farewell
As dawn broke the following day, Pope Francis’ condition worsened suddenly. Before slipping into a coma, he raised his frail hand in a final gesture of farewell to his trusted nurse, Massimiliano Strappetti, who had cared for him throughout his health struggles. In his last moments, Pope Francis was surrounded by those he trusted most.
The Vatican reported that Pope Francis passed away peacefully, without suffering, at 7:35 AM. The news of his death spread quickly, and millions mourned the loss of a spiritual leader who had touched hearts worldwide.
Pope Francis’ Belief in Eternal Life
In the months leading up to his death, Pope Francis had time to reflect on his own mortality. Known for his humility, he had long accepted the reality of his aging health. However, rather than viewing death as a final end, Pope Francis saw it as a new chapter in the eternal journey.
In his preface to Cardinal Scola’s book, Pope Francis wrote:
“Death is not the end of everything, but the beginning of something. It is a new beginning, as the title wisely highlights, because eternal life, which those who love already begin to experience on earth within the daily tasks of life, is beginning something that will never end.”
This message encapsulated Pope Francis’ deep belief in eternal life. He often emphasized the idea that the love and devotion we experience in this life continue beyond death. For Pope Francis, death marked the beginning of something greater — the eternal experience that transcends earthly existence.
Pope Francis’ Legacy
Pope Francis’ passing is not just the loss of a religious leader, but also the end of an era. His papacy marked a significant shift in the Catholic Church’s relationship with the world. He made strides toward greater inclusivity, advocating for the marginalized and promoting dialogue across religious and cultural divides.
Handout/Vatican News service
Under his leadership, the Church became a vocal proponent of social justice, environmental responsibility, and compassion. His humble approach to leadership, often seen in his personal actions, inspired people around the world, whether Catholic or not. Pope Francis was a figure of hope, dedicated to spreading the message of peace and unity.
His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who felt his influence, from his commitment to fighting poverty and advocating for refugees to his focus on global environmental issues.
Pope Francis’ Final Wishes
In the days following his death, the Vatican revealed that Pope Francis had made special arrangements for his burial. Unlike many of his predecessors, who were buried within the Vatican, Pope Francis requested to be laid to rest in a more simple manner. He also made it clear that no inscriptions on his tomb should mention his role as pope, reflecting his desire for humility and simplicity even after death.
These decisions are consistent with the life Pope Francis led: a life focused on service, humility, and devotion to the Church and its followers.
Pope Francis. Credit / Getty Images
A New Beginning: Pope Francis’ Final Message
While the world mourns the death of Pope Francis, his final message continues to inspire. His belief that death is a “new beginning” offers comfort to those who mourn. In his final days, Pope Francis showed the world that faith and love do not end with death; rather, they are eternal and continue beyond the boundaries of life.
For those who struggle with loss, Pope Francis’ words provide solace. His peaceful passing, combined with his firm belief in eternal life, reminds us that death is not something to fear but a continuation of the journey.
Conclusion: A Life Well Lived
Pope Francis’ death may mark the end of his physical presence on earth, but his teachings and legacy will continue to influence generations to come. His life was a testament to the power of faith, compassion, and service. As the world prepares for his funeral, it’s important to remember his belief that death is not an end but a new beginning — a theme that permeated his life and will continue to inspire those who follow his teachings.
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