Religious Figures · 21st Century

Pope John Paul II’s Last Words

May 18, 1920 April 2, 2005 Age 84 Polish
Let me go to the house of the Father.
— Pope John Paul II, April 2, 2005

Who Was Pope John Paul II?

Pope John Paul II was one of the most influential popes in history, serving for 26 years. He played a role in ending communism in Poland, traveled extensively, and reached out to other faiths.

The Final Moments

The Pope died in his private apartment in the Vatican. His final days were witnessed by hundreds of thousands gathered in St. Peter's Square. He had been suffering from Parkinson's disease.

Are These Words Verified?

✓ High Confidence

The Pope's personal secretary Archbishop Dziwisz was present and reported these words, which were officially confirmed by the Vatican. Multiple witnesses corroborate the account.

Sources

  • firsthand Vatican official statements
  • firsthand Archbishop Stanisław Dziwisz's testimony
  • biography George Weigel's The End and the Beginning

Legacy

John Paul II was canonized in 2014. His papacy reshaped the modern Catholic Church and helped end communism in Eastern Europe.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What were Pope John Paul II’s last words?

“Let me go to the house of the Father.”

How did Pope John Paul II die?

Pope John Paul II died on April 2, 2005 at the age of 84. Cause of death: Heart failure.

Were Pope John Paul II’s last words documented?

The Pope's personal secretary Archbishop Dziwisz was present and reported these words, which were officially confirmed by the Vatican. Multiple witnesses corroborate the account.