In a significant departure from the Church tradition, Pope Francis created history by washing the feet of two young women and kissed those with much respect. The Holy Thursday ritual ahead of Good Friday was limited to the men only. But, the Pope broke the tradition and showed his respect to the women too.

While the liberals welcomed the move, the conservatives have expressed their reservations, sparking off a big debate within the Church. But, the new Pope seems unfazed by the criticism. Out of the 12 young people who got the foot service from the Pope, two were young girls.

“Jesus washed the feet of his disciples on the eve of his crucifixion in a gesture of love and service. This is a symbol, it is a sign. Washing your feet means I am at your service. This is what I do. And I do it with my heart. I do this with my heart it because it is my duty. As a priest and bishop, I must be at your service”, said the Pope to the young juvenile offenders while doing the worship.