Pope Returns to Traditional Foot-Washing of Priests
AP Photo/Andrew Medichin
Pope Leo XIV carried out the traditional Holy Thursday ritual of washing the feet of 12 priests, emphasizing a return to a practice that had been changed in recent years. During the ceremony, he washed the feet of priests rather than including laypeople or members of other faiths, a departure from the approach taken by his predecessor, who had expanded the ritual to include participants from prisons, youth detention centers, and facilities housing asylum seekers.
Among the twelve whose feet were washed were eleven priests ordained by Leo last year, along with Rev. Renzo Chiesa, who leads the main seminary for the Diocese of Rome. In the ceremony, Leo poured water from a golden pitcher over each priest’s feet, dried them with a white cloth, and kissed them. In his homily, he described the act as a humble and freely given gesture that reflects what he called the true power of God.
The Holy Thursday foot-washing has long been a central part of Holy Week observances. It commemorates the moment during the Last Supper when Jesus washed the feet of his twelve apostles before his crucifixion.
The ritual was changed in 2013 when Pope Francis chose to include women and people of other religions among the participants. Before that change, popes traditionally performed the ceremony only with Catholic men at a basilica in Rome.
Leo’s decision to once again focus the ritual on priests signals a shift back to the earlier tradition. It also reflects what appears to be his broader effort to support Catholic clergy and recognize their role within the church.
Pope Francis had frequently spoken critically about what he described as a “clerical” mindset that elevates priests above ordinary believers. He argued that this culture contributed to abuses of authority, including the clergy sexual abuse crisis.
Leo has taken a different tone, highlighting the importance of protecting priests and supporting them during difficult times. His prayer intentions for April were dedicated to priests experiencing hardship, including those struggling with loneliness, exhaustion, or doubt.
In a message released by the Vatican, Leo prayed that priests would know they are not simply workers or isolated figures, but valued sons and devoted disciples whose ministry is strengthened by the prayers of the faithful.
About Post Author
