Pope Francis Performs Humble Gesture
Pope Francis, at 87 years old and in a wheelchair due to recent ailments affecting his mobility, washed and kissed the feet of 12 women inmates at a Rome prison as part of a Holy Thursday ritual. The venue at Rebibbia prison was specially adapted to accommodate the pope’s needs, allowing him to move down the line with ease. The emotional women wept as Francis washed their feet, symbolizing the act of service and humility.
Revolutionizing Holy Week Tradition
Since becoming pope in 2013, Francis has transformed the traditional Holy Thursday foot-washing ceremony by including women and people of other faiths, breaking away from the previous practice of performing the ritual on Catholic men only. The symbolic gesture follows in the footsteps of Jesus washing the feet of his apostles at the Last Supper.
Emphasizing Service and Humility
Francis, known for his belief in serving marginalized communities, reiterated the importance of humility and service during the prison visit. Despite recent health concerns, the pope appeared in good spirits, delivering an off-the-cuff homily on the meaning of the gesture, emphasizing Jesus’ message of serving others.
Upcoming Easter Schedule
As Holy Thursday events concluded, Pope Francis gears up for a busy Easter schedule, including presiding over the Way of the Cross procession at the Colosseum, Easter Vigil in St. Peter’s Basilica, Easter Sunday Mass, and delivering the Urbi et Orbi speech highlighting global conflicts and disasters.