On Maundy Thursday, 2/4, Pope Leo XIV performed the traditional foot-washing ceremony at the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, his cathedral in Rome. During the ritual, he poured water from a golden ewer onto the feet of 12 priests, dried them with a white towel, and then kissed each foot.
Speaking at the ceremony, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the profound meaning of the act. "Through this action, Jesus not only cleanses wrong, blind notions of God but also clarifies the true nature of humanity," he stated.
Pope Leo XIV washes the feet of 12 priests at the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran on 2/4. Video: Vatican News
Pope Leo XIV, a staunch opponent of war, further elaborated on the meaning of true leadership and service. He shared: "We often mistakenly believe that power means domination, victory means destroying others, and greatness means instilling fear. But Jesus showed us a completely opposite example: sacrifice, service, and love."
Of the 12 priests chosen for the ceremony, 11 were ordained by Pope Leo XIV just last year. The group also included Father Renzo Chiesa, director of the main seminary of the Diocese of Rome.
The Maundy Thursday foot-washing ritual is a highlight of Holy Week, commemorating Jesus washing the feet of his 12 apostles at the Last Supper before his crucifixion.
Pope Leo XIV's decision marks a return to a more traditional practice, which his predecessor, the late Pope Francis, had altered in 2013. On his first Maundy Thursday as Pope, Francis included women and people of other faiths among the 12 participants, departing from the historical norm of selecting only priests.
Historically, this rite was reserved for Catholic men and performed in basilicas in Rome. The late Pope Francis, however, extended the ceremony to prisons, juvenile detention centers, and asylum seeker centers, broadening its scope.
Pope Leo XIV's decision to restore the traditional practice emphasizes the significance of tradition, encourages clergy, and expresses deep appreciation for their dedicated service.
In a prayer intention published by the Vatican this week, Pope Leo XIV expressed his hope for priests: "Let them feel that they are not just officials or lonely heroes, but beloved children, humble and precious disciples, pastors supported by the prayers of God's people."
He also prayed for God to teach the faithful to care for their priests, "to listen without judgment, to give thanks without demanding perfection," and to always accompany them with prayer.
Hong Hanh (According to *AP*)
