On Holy Thursday, April 2, 2026, Pope Leo XIV washed the feet of 12 priests he had ordained the previous year, marking a return to a more traditional expression of the rite.
The Mass was celebrated at the Basilica of St. John Lateran, the cathedral church of the Diocese of Rome. In his homily, the Holy Father reflected on the meaning of leadership in light of Christ’s example, noting that while worldly leaders often measure power through dominance and victory, true greatness is found in service and love.
Drawing from the Gospel account of the washing of the disciples’ feet, the Pope emphasized that Jesus Christ demonstrated a model of leadership rooted in humility and self-giving. He stated that, in a world marked by violence and suffering, Christians are called to “kneel” in solidarity with the oppressed and marginalized.
The gesture marks a contrast with the practice of the late Pope Francis, who, during his pontificate, often washed the feet of prisoners, migrants, and non-Catholics on Holy Thursday as a sign of inclusivity and outreach.
Explaining his approach, Pope Leo XIV highlighted the theological significance of the Holy Thursday liturgy, which commemorates both the institution of the Eucharist and the priesthood. By washing the feet of priests, he underscored the intrinsic link between these two sacraments and the call to priestly self-gift in imitation of Christ.
The Holy Father also noted that his prayer intention for the month of April is dedicated to priests, reflecting his pastoral concern for their mission and the challenges they face in contemporary society.
By Anita Aryeh
DEPSOCOM, Accra
