Mandatum in Holy Thursday liturgy QUESTION from joe February 28, 2000
What is the proper liturgy for the Mandatum? Our parish is being torn apart over this issue. The arguments go from washing all the feet of the assembled to not washing feet at all, but rather observing something like washing hands, just so it's done in a reverent manner. In fact, where can I get information about the liturgical rules for the Paschkal Triduum, or will you be going into this as we near Easter? ANSWER by Mr. John Miskell on April 5, 2000
Dear Joe Washing the feet is an optional practice on Holy Thursday. The rubrics say that the priest is to select twelve MEN from the congregation. Unfortunately all too many priests and even some bishops have turned this meaningful liturgical act into a politically correct side-show which I personally find revolting. The practice of selecting women is even being FORCED upon some good and holy priests who want to be obedient. A great on-line resource is the Catholic Liturgical Library at; http://www.catholicliturgy.com/ John Miskell Back to Index Page