Thiruvananthapuram: Despite directions from Pope Francis, the Syro-Malabar Church has decided to not wash the feet of women on Maundy Thursday and will stick to the tradition of washing the feet of 12 men or boys.
A circular issued by the Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar church, Cardinal George Alencherry, has asked churches to continue with the tradition of washing the feet of men.
The circular said this was decided by the Synod of Bishops. This year Maundy Thursday will fall on April 13.
He said that people from all walks of life, including women, youngsters, elderly and the sick, should be among the 12 people whose feet are washed on the day.
The ritual is said to have been performed by Jesus as one of his last acts for his disciples before he was crucified.
Maundy Thursday is the Christian holy day falling on the Thursday before Easter. It commemorates the Maundy and Last Supper of Jesus Christ with the Apostles as described in the canonical gospels. It is the fifth day of Holy Week, and is preceded by Holy Wednesday and followed by Good Friday.
Since last year, there have been discussions and suggestions about it and the Church had also sought clarification from the congregation whether it is for the Eastern churches as well.
“It was clarified that the direction is meant for the Latin churches only. Thus, this change does not concern the liturgical practices in the Eastern churches,” the circular said.
Father Jimmy Poochakkatt, spokesperson of the Syro-Malabar Church, confirmed to CNN-News18 that such a circular has been issued.
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