In a heartfelt and deeply personal account, Pope Francis’s personal physician has opened up about the final moments of the Pope’s life, painting an intimate portrait of courage, grace, and faith in the face of death.
Dr. Matteo Bellini, who had served as the Pope’s primary doctor for over a decade, spoke publicly for the first time about the emotional hours leading up to the Pontiff’s peaceful passing, offering a rare glimpse into the private farewell of one of the world’s most beloved spiritual leaders.
“He Knew the Hour Was Near”
According to Dr. Bellini, Pope Francis remained lucid and spiritually present in the final days, fully aware of his declining health and the nearness of death.
“There was a calm acceptance in him,” Bellini shared. “He was not afraid. In fact, he was the one comforting those around him.”
The doctor described how, even as his strength faded, the Pope continued to speak words of blessing and gratitude to the medical staff and close aides at his bedside. “He thanked every nurse by name,” Bellini recalled, visibly emotional. “He told me, ‘Matteo, do not be sad. I am going home.’”
The Power of Presence
Friends and clergy who gathered near the Pope in those final hours described an atmosphere of profound peace. Soft Gregorian chants filled the room, and the scent of incense gently drifted through the air as prayers were whispered over him.
“He requested silence, prayer, and forgiveness,” Dr. Bellini said. “His last moments were not filled with fear, but with presence. He held onto my hand and smiled. His final words were simple: ‘Thank you. Stay close to one
