Pope Francis Washes Feet of Prisoners in Holy Thursday Ritual

Pope Francis visited a prison near Rome to wash the feet of 12 inmates, a Holy Thursday ritual that symbolizes humility. Earlier, the pope celebrated Mass of the Lord’s Supper at St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City.

The Vatican said the pope performed the foot-washing, following Jesus' example, “in a sign of love inspired by love” aimed at service and humility.

The 12 inmates included men and women of various ages and of different nationalities, it said.

The ritual was closed to the public for security reasons and to protect the privacy of the inmates.

Symbolizing the number of Jesus’ apostles, the twelve sat on chairs on a raised platform.

The pontiff washed, dried, then kissed the feet of each of the inmates, all who were wearing masks against the spread of Covid-19. Some inmates leaned over to kiss the pope’s hands in gratitude.

In the prison chapel, the pope celebrated a Mass attended by inmates, some prison staff and Italy's justice minister.

The Vatican did not say what accommodations might have been made to enable the pope, who has been hobbled of late by a knee-ligament problem, to perform the foot-washing ceremony.

For years, Francis has also suffered from sciatica, a nerve inflammation that can cause back and leg pain.

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[healinghumanity]

People of Europe have suffered deeply in much their history since the establishment of Greek civilization—the violence of Romans, the Vikings, terrible wars of religion, conquests, world War I & World War II, plus half a century of Cold War. When will they have enough sorrow? Yet their leaders don’t seem to face the fact that in the face of a nuclear war, NATO’s might is insignificant. How wonderful it would be if world leaders woke up & established a global alliance that would ensure security for the ENTIRE world. Prayers are not enough.

[delta]

Have some respect for people's culture. It shows great humility and love for what he is doing.

[rickyalfaro]

You know my man had the Gucci suit super fresh for the lord 💎😮‍💨

[stormynight]

He's not only washing but kissing his feet

[carriehoy]

IF A SOUL, HAS THE HEART, THIS IS JUST RIGHTLY, APPROPRIATE THANKYOU POPE FRANCIS, US REAL CHRISTIANS LOVE YOUR DISPLAY OF THIS SELFLESS ACT OF COMPLIANCE OF JESUS THE CHRIST
TO RETURN, 2ND.COMMING OF GOD. 🌎💜

[mbek]

They are in prison because they did a crime, and there are victims. What about victims?!

[rodolfosantos]

God bless our faith especially our beloved Pope Francis..Amen

[solideights]

Sorry to say, they should end this foot kissing practice, it’s ridiculous besides GOD=FICTION