‘Thank You for Bringing Me Back to the Square’

By Salvatore Cernuzio

“Thank you for bringing me back to the Square”. This expression of gratitude was among Pope Francis’ last words. They were addressed to Massimiliano Strappetti, the nurse who, according to the Pope himself, had saved his life by suggesting colon surgery, and who had been appointed as his personal healthcare assistant in 2022.

Mr Strappetti remained by the Pope’s side throughout the 38 days of his hospitalization at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, and kept watch round-the-clock during his recovery at Casa Santa Marta. He was also with the Pope on Easter Sunday, during the Urbi et Orbi blessing.

The day before, they had gone together to Saint Peter’s Basilica to review the “route” he would take the following day when he was to appear on the Central Loggia of Saint Peter’s Basilica. The Pope wanted to offer one last, meaningful surprise to the 50,000 faithful with a ride in the popemobile on Sunday, but he was hesitant, even asking Mr Strappetti: “Do you think I can manage it”?

Once in Saint Peter’s Square, the Holy Father embraced the crowd, especially the children, since this was his first ride after being discharged from Gemelli hospital. Tired but content, the Pope later thanked his personal healthcare assistant, saying, “Thank you for bringing me back to the Square”. These heartfelt words reveal Pope Francis’ deep desire to be among the people of God, enjoying the human connection that was a hallmark of his papacy.

The Pope then rested on Sunday afternoon and had a quiet dinner. Around 5:30 a.m., the first signs of his sudden illness appeared, prompting an immediate response. Around an hour later, as he lay in his bed, the Holy Father made a gesture of farewell with his hand to Mr Strappetti and then slipped into a coma.

According to those who were with him in his final moments, he did not suffer. His was a discreet death, almost sudden, without prolonged suffering or public alarm. Pope Francis passed away the day after Easter, after he had imparted his final Apostolic Blessing to the city and the world, and embraced the faithful one last time.