Pope Leo XIV washed the feet of 12 priests in the traditional Holy Thursday ritual, restoring a tradition his predecessor Pope Francis had broken by including laypeople and non-Christians. The ceremony took place at the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran in Rome.
The priests included 11 ordained by Leo last year, along with the Rev. Renzo Chiesa, director of the Rome Diocese's primary seminary. The pontiff poured water from a golden pitcher over the priests’ feet, dried them with a white cloth, and bestowed a kiss, describing the act as a “gratuitous and humble gesture” that demonstrates “the true omnipotence of God.”
In his homily, Pope Leo XIV said: “Indeed, through this act, Jesus purifies not only our image of God – from the idolatry and blasphemy that have distorted it – but also our image of humanity.” He added that people tend to consider themselves powerful when they dominate, but Christ offers the example of self-giving, service and love.
The Holy Thursday foot-washing ceremony recalls Jesus washing the feet of his 12 apostles at the Last Supper. Pope Francis had revolutionised the ritual by including women and people of other faiths, often holding the ceremony in prisons or migrant centres. Leo’s decision to restore the prominence of priests is seen as a return to tradition and a gesture consistent with his efforts to encourage clergy.
Pope Leo has spoken about protecting priests’ rights, dedicating his April prayer intentions to priests in crisis. He asked for God to teach the faithful to care for their priests, “to listen without judging, to give thanks without demanding perfection,” and accompany them with prayer.
