Maundy Thursday was observed worldwide, with Pope Francis performing perhaps the most unique ritual by washing and kissing the feet of 12 juvenile inmates, ages 14 to 21. It caused a minor stir because 2 of the detainees were girls.
The Pope said to the minors that the washing was a "symbol" and a "sign" that he is at their service, and that Jesus commands us to "help one another." He later observed Mass as part of the day's schedule.
Maundy Thursday is said to extend from the word "mandatum" in Latin, meaning "mandate." It is the day before Good Friday, generally recognized as the day when Jesus held the Last Supper together with his 12 disciples and got up to wash their feet at the table. The "mandate" was the command of Jesus to do for one another as he had done. Hence, Pope Francis' gesture harkens back to the original events of the Passion Week.
All of this is leading up the Easter observances, which is one of the most important events on the Christian calendar.
No doubt, the youths whose feet were washed by the Pope will never forget the experience, as many Catholics in the world long for a chance to even see the pontiff in person, let alone have their feet washed by him. It is a fitting way to celebrate his first Maundy Thursday as pope, after a whirldwind election and generally positive reception by the Catholic church and the world in general.
