03.04.2026 09:21
Pope Leo XIII first performed the "foot-washing ritual" for the homeless, prisoners, and other marginalized individuals during the Holy Thursday service, marking it as a tradition initiated by his predecessor, Pope Francis. Pope Leo XIII washed, dried, and kissed the feet of 12 Roman priests. This ritual symbolizes the humility and service that Jesus sent to his apostles.
In May 2025, the 70-year-old American Pope 14th Leo, elected in Vatican, presided over the Holy Week ceremonies held to commemorate the last days before Easter for the first time. On Thursday afternoon, the Pope led the Last Supper Mass at the Basilica of St. John Lateran in Rome.
WASHED THE FEET OF 12 PRIESTS
Pope Leo, wearing a white linen apron, washed the feet of 12 Roman priests in accordance with Christian tradition, drying and kissing them. This ritual symbolizes the humility and service that Jesus showed to his disciples.
DURING FRANCIS' TERM, DIFFERENT LOCATIONS WERE PREFERRED
Pope Francis had generally performed this ritual in prisons, refugee centers, or among marginalized communities during his 12-year term. By washing the feet of the sick, immigrants, prisoners, and even former mafia members, Francis conveyed a message of "respect for the forgotten."
In April 2025, Francis, whose health had significantly deteriorated and who was using a wheelchair, made his last visit to a prison in Rome but was unable to perform the ritual. Four days after this visit, Pope Francis passed away at the age of 88 on the day after Easter.
"HUMANITY KNEELS IN THE FACE OF OPPRESSION"
Pope 14th Leo returned the ritual to the basilica, reverting to a more traditional practice. However, in his sermon, he also referred to his predecessor Francis. Leo reminded of Francis' words in 2013: "This is a mission from my heart, I love it because the Lord taught me this."
In his sermon, Pope Leo drew attention to the sufferings of humanity, stating, "As humanity kneels in the face of so much oppression, let us also kneel as brothers alongside the oppressed."