The smallest city in the world witnessed a heartfelt gesture at the Rebibbia prison. The 87-year-old Pope of Vatican City washed the feet of 12 women prisoners ahead of the Holy Thursday celebration.
Pope’s legacy
Pope Francis was seen in his wheelchair, washing, drying and kissing the feet of the twelve women inmates. Ahead of performing the ceremony, the Pope said, “Jesus humiliates himself,” “With this gesture, he makes us understand what he had said: “I am not here to be served, but to serve”. The Pope further added that “He teaches us the path of service”.
In addition, the Pope received vegetables and two liturgical stoles crafted by the inmates as gifts. In return, the inmates were presented a framed image of the Madonna and a large chocolate Easter egg for one of their children.
The Pope, since the time he took up the papacy, has diversified this ritual. He is said to be the first to conduct such a ritual outside of churches and include women, atheists, Muslims, and other non-Christians in the service.
About the ceremony
This foot-washing ceremony performed a day prior to Good Friday is a hallmark of the Holy Week and recalls the ceremony performed by Jesus on his 12 apostles at their last supper together before he was crucified.
This ritual is called Pedelavium or Pedilavium and is followed by various Christian denominations.
The health of the Pope is a major concern in the current times. However, he seemed invigorated at the ceremony despite a long Mass earlier in the day at St. Peter’s Basilica. He is said to have an occupied schedule owing to Easter this Sunday. 
