The heartbreaking final gesture Pope Francis made to a nurse before his death on Easter Monday has been revealed.
Pope Francis, whose real name was Jorge Mario Bergoglio, had experienced ill health in the months leading up to his passing at the age of 88.
The Holy Father at the head of the Roman Catholic Church was rushed to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital back in February after suffering a respiratory infection, chronic bronchitis, which developed into pneumonia in both lungs, and a mild kidney failure.
And just earlier this month, he had experienced an 'isolated attack of bronchospasm, which caused an episode of vomiting with inhalation and a 'sudden worsening of his respiratory condition'.
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The Vatican confirmed his sad passing earlier this week with Camerlengo Cardinal Kevin Farrell saying: “Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7.35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father.
“His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially for the poorest and most marginalised.
“With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite, merciful love of God, One and Tribune.″
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Among Francis' final words was a thank you to the nurse who's been by his side during the final months of his life amid ongoing health issues.
The Vatican’s official news outlet reported Francis told Massimiliano Strappetti: "Thanks for bringing me to the square."
Francis gave his final speech as Pope on Easter Sunday (April 20), which he initially had doubts over after asking Strappetti, his personal assistant: "Do you think I can manage it?"
Francis addressed the crowds in the Vatican's St Peter's Square in a 'heartbreaking' final speech.
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He said: [Translation] "Dear brothers and sisters, Happy Easter! Blessed be the almighty father and son and holy spirit. I ask the master of ceremonies to read the message."
His address, in part, continued: "And with firm hope in eternal life, I wish to set out my final wishes solely regarding the place of my burial. Throughout my life, and during my ministry as a priest and bishop, I have always entrusted myself to the Mother of Our Lord, the Blessed Virgin Mary.
"For this reason, I ask that my mortal remains rest - awaiting the day of the Resurrection - in the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major.
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Vatican News reported Francis had a 'peaceful dinner' the night before he died, and it wasn't until 5:30am local time on Monday his inner circle grew concerned.
The outlet said: "A little more than an hour later, making a farewell gesture with his hand to Strappetti ... the pontiff went into a coma. He did not suffer, and it all happened very fast."
Francis' cause of death has been confirmed as a cerebral stroke that led to a coma and irreversible heart failure.
Topics: Pope Francis, Catholic Church, World News, Religion
Callum Jones