Pope Leo XIV marked his first Holy Thursday as pontiff by washing the feet of 12 Roman priests at the Basilica of St. John Lateran, returning to a centuries-old tradition. This contrasts sharply with his predecessor Pope Francis, who broke precedent by washing the feet of prisoners, refugees, and even women and Muslims at unconventional locations.

Francis's approach, which began just weeks after his 2013 election, symbolized his commitment to serving society's marginalized. The former pope visited prisons, senior homes, and refugee centers on Holy Thursdays throughout his papacy, emphasizing humility and outreach. Leo's decision to perform the rite with priests at the traditional basilica location signals a shift toward institutional continuity.

This ceremonial change aligns with Leo's broader efforts to restore traditional papal practices, including wearing ceremonial garments and residing in the Apostolic Palace. The choice carries particular weight given the Catholic Church's declining priesthood worldwide, with vocations down except in Africa. By washing the feet of 11 priests he personally ordained last year, Leo appears to be offering encouragement to clergy facing increasing challenges and isolation.