Pope Francis washed and kissed the feet of 12 women prisoners On the first of four eventful days leading up to Easter, Pope Francis performed a symbolic act of humility and compassion by washing and kissing the feet of 12 women prisoners. This gesture, carried out by the 87-year-old pontiff, highlights his commitment to serving and showing solidarity with those who are marginalized or incarcerated.

Sarmad Alsaadi
So great of Pope Francis who is symbolizing humility and servitude. This act reflects Jesus’ teaching that true leadership involves serving others rather than seeking to be served. Though I know little about christianity, I think Jesus Christ did the same to his disciples

Pope Francis, in good health, performed the traditional ritual of washing and kissing the feet of 12 women prisoners. This meaningful event occurred on Thursday, marking the start of four significant days leading up to Easter for the 87-year-old pontiff. The Holy Thursday Mass took place at Rebibbia prison in Rome, situated in a disadvantaged area on the city's outskirts. In attendance were inmates, guards, chaplains, and officials from the prison's female section.

Seated in his wheelchair, Pope Francis personally washed and kissed the right foot of each of the 12 women. This act symbolized Jesus' humble gesture towards his apostles during the Last Supper before his crucifixion. The emotional ritual moved some of the inmates, including foreigners, to tears. The female section of Rebibbia prison, one of Italy's largest, houses approximately 370 inmates who have been convicted of various offenses.

It is noteworthy that Pope Francis is the first pontiff to conduct the foot-washing ceremony outside of churches. He often chooses venues such as prisons, homes for the elderly, or hospices. This practice originated during his time as the archbishop of Buenos Aires and has continued throughout his papacy. Additionally, Pope Francis is the first pope to include women, atheists, Muslims, and individuals of other faiths in the service. Previous popes exclusively held the ceremony for men, typically priests, in either St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican or the Basilica of St. John in Lateran.


Pope Francis kisses the foot of an inmate at Casal del Marmo juvenile prison during his visit for a foot washing service, in Rome, Italy April 6, 2023. Vatican Media/Handout via REUTERS ATTENTION EDITORS - THIS IMAGE WAS PROVIDED BY A THIRD PARTY. TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY/ Reuters