The world woke up this morning to heartbreaking news: Pope Francis has passed away at the age of 88. The Vatican shared the announcement on Easter Monday, just one day after his final public appearance.

Thousands of people had traveled to Rome for Easter celebrations, and many were in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday to see the Pope—perhaps without realizing it would be his last time addressing the world.

Although his health had been declining due to a difficult battle with double pneumonia, Pope Francis still appeared briefly on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to greet the faithful and offer his Easter blessings. A high-ranking cardinal, Angelo Comastri, led the Easter Mass in his place.

From his wheelchair, the Pope waved to the crowd and delivered a short but deeply meaningful message. This year, instead of reading the traditional “Urbi et Orbi” blessing himself, it was read by a Vatican archbishop. Still, his message echoed powerfully across the world.

He spoke about several pressing global issues, condemning the rise of antisemitism and expressing sorrow over the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

“I think of the people of Gaza, and its Christian community in particular, where the terrible conflict continues to cause death and destruction,” he said in what is now being remembered as his final Easter address. He pleaded once again for a ceasefire.

The message also stressed the importance of freedom—freedom of religion, of thought, and of expression. “There can be no peace without freedom,” it read.

After the address, Pope Francis was driven around the square in an open-top vehicle, waving to the crowd one last time.

His final weeks were marked by absences from traditional Holy Week events, including the Stations of the Cross, the Easter Vigil, and the foot-washing ceremony—rituals he had always honored since becoming pope in 2013. Still, he made brief appearances when he could, showing the same humility and strength that defined his papacy.

Though he had just recently been released from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital after a month-long stay, doctors had warned that he needed time to heal. Unfortunately, his body could no longer keep up.

Pope Francis leaves behind a powerful legacy—one of compassion, inclusivity, and faith. His final message is a reminder to carry those values forward in our own lives.

Share this story with anyone who would be comforted or inspired by his words.