Pope Francis: Jesus asked us to always be at the service of others

Summary

Pope Francis commemorated Holy Thursday with a Mass at the St. Mary of Providence Center, part of the Don Carlo Gnocchi Foundation. Surrounded by families and patients with special needs, he reflected on Jesus’ act of washing the disciples' feet during the Last Supper, emphasizing the call to serve one another. Despite mobility challenges, he personally washed and kissed the feet of patients, demonstrating his commitment to the sick and marginalized. The Don Carlo Gnocchi Foundation operates numerous centers in Italy and internationally, embodying the Pope's mission to remain close to those on the periphery of society.

Takeaways

• 😀 Pope Francis celebrated Holy Thursday Mass at the Santa Maria of Providence Center, emphasizing care for the sick and marginalized.
• 🙏 He highlighted the significance of Jesus washing the feet of his disciples during the Last Supper as an example of humility and service.
• 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 The event took place in a center that serves individuals with special needs, the elderly, and the sick.
• 🌍 The Don Carlo Foundation operates 39 centers across Italy and also extends its services to countries like Rwanda, Sierra Leone, and Bosnia.
• 💖 Pope Francis reminded attendees of their duty to serve one another in love, as Jesus taught.
• 👣 He personally washed and kissed the feet of several patients, symbolizing his dedication to pastoral care.
• 🕊️ The act of foot washing represents an enduring legacy of service that Jesus left for his followers.
• 💬 Pope Francis encouraged reflection on how to better serve others and embody Jesus' love in daily life.
• 👥 He continues to prioritize time with the poor and marginalized, following his tradition from earlier in his papacy.
• ✨ The Mass reinforced the values of compassion, community, and the importance of caring for those in existential need.

Q & A

What ceremony did Pope Francis celebrate on Holy Thursday?

Pope Francis celebrated the Holy Thursday Mass, which is one of the most important ceremonies of the year.

Where did the Mass take place?

The Mass took place at the St. Mary of Providence Center for the Don Carlo Foundation.

Who was present during the Mass?

Families, workers, and patients from the center, which cares for people with special needs, the elderly, and the sick, were present.

What significant act did Pope Francis perform during the Mass?

Pope Francis washed and kissed the feet of each patient, symbolizing humility and service.

What lesson did Pope Francis convey about service?

He emphasized that everyone should be servants to one another, reflecting the love and service that Jesus demonstrated.

What does Pope Francis compare his gesture of foot washing to?

He compares it to the act of Jesus washing the feet of his disciples during the Last Supper.

What is the mission of the Don Carlo Foundation?

The Don Carlo Foundation operates 39 centers across Italy and provides support to vulnerable populations, including work in countries like Rwanda, Sierra Leone, and Bosnia.

How does Pope Francis's choice of location reflect his priorities?

By choosing to spend Holy Thursday among the sick and marginalized, he highlights his commitment to those in existential need.

What specific populations does the Don Carlo Foundation serve?

The foundation serves people with special needs, the elderly, and those who are sick.

What was the emotional tone of the Mass?

The Mass conveyed a tone of compassion, humility, and a strong message of love and service to others.