Pope Francis breaks with tradition in annual ritual by washing the feet of women only | CNN
Pope Francis breaks tradition by washing women's feet at a prison in Rome.
- Bilawal Riaz
- 1 min read

Pope Francis washed the feet of 12 women at a prison in Rome, emphasizing humility in a special annual ceremony. This was the first time he exclusively washed women’s feet, breaking tradition. The 87-year-old pontiff, facing health challenges, led the ritual from a wheelchair. He has previously washed the feet of prisoners, refugees, and the disabled. The act symbolizes Jesus washing his disciples’ feet before his death. Pope Francis’ inclusive approach faced initial resistance in the Vatican. At a recent ceremony, he skipped delivering a homily, marking the beginning of Holy Week as Christians prepared for Easter. His recent health struggles included bouts of bronchitis, flu, and a hospital stay for tests.
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