The emotional final gesture Pope Francis made to a nurse before his passing on Easter Monday has now been shared.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, had been in poor health for several months leading up to his death at the age of 88.

The leader of the Roman Catholic Church was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital in February after dealing with a respiratory infection, chronic bronchitis, which later turned into pneumonia in both of his lungs, along with mild kidney failure.

Earlier this month, he also suffered an isolated bronchospasm, which led to vomiting and a sudden worsening of his breathing condition.

The Vatican confirmed his death earlier this week, with Camerlengo Cardinal Kevin Farrell stating, “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.”