With Pope Leo washing the feet of twelve priests at the Holy Thursday liturgy, many reports have seen a “return to tradition.” That’s accurate, but incomplete.

The liturgy of Holy Thursday recalls the Last Supper, at which Jesus washed the feet of his apostles, who were the first priests (and bishops) of his Church. The same liturgy also celebrates the institution of that priesthood.

Of the dozen men whose feet the Pontiff washed, eleven were ordained by Pope Leo himself (the 12th is spiritual director at a Roman seminary). So the Pope’s gesture conveys not only a sense of humble service, but also a recognition of the great gift that is the priesthood.