Foot washing -Huh?

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IMHO, a return to washing the feet of 12 men would make the symbolism and meaning clear to the faithful.
SuscipeMeDomine said:
In my parish everyone who wants to participate in the footwashing is invited.
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This would make me very happy that Holy Thursday Mass is not obligatory. I’d likely have a panic attack or at least need to wear pearls to avoid clawing up my neck.
 
I have to wonder if this is allowed. It certainly loses the symbolism.
 
tafan2 said:
I have to wonder if this is allowed. It certainly loses the symbolism.
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Over the years this has changed from a solemn ceremony to almost anything goes. I’ve seen everything from the priest washing the feet of 12 men, to everyone in the nave marching down the aisle with one shoe off.
 
It really doesn’t matter if they find it meaningful or not. With regards to my question is it allowed by the rubrics, that is obvious. With regards to my opinion about it losing its intended symbolism, I may be wrong, but participants finding it meaningful does not convince me one way or another.
 
I thought the liturgical color was white for the institution of the Eucharist and the institution of the priesthood?
 
I have had the experience of both being washed and of washing. The former is extremely humbling and I wasn’t sure what to say except “thank you”! the latter is a reminder of the call to humility and service of the people of God.
 
tafan2 said:
Are you a priest? How were you washing feet on Holy Thursday?
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Yes. The plan is to have six people (probably men and women - I’m not fussed either way) seated in chairs along the front of the sanctuary (ours is a small parish) to have their feet washed. The server will stand next to me holding the jug and a towel and, all going to plan, it’ll work something like this: pour, dry, move bowl along, stand, kneel, repeat…
 
I worded my question poorly, Father. Thanks for the explanation. I had assumed you were lay and was wondering why you were washing. Sorry
 
Just wanted to say that I went through with it. Definitely out of my comfort zone having someone touching my tootsies. However, it was done really smoothly. No weird embarrassing moments.

I have to say that I was focused on not embarrassing myself during the moment but reflecting on it, it was a real honour to be chosen especially as I am one of those solo invisible parishioners in back pew. It means a lot to know that I’m just as valued by the priest as really active members of the parish.

Happy Maunday Thursday!
 
12 last night, 7 adult males, a little boy, and 4 youth (3 guys, 1 gal) preparing for Confirmation. Father did kiss everyone’s foot.
 
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