The Washing of the Malades' Feet

The morning concludes with this beautiful ceremony in which all the Beloved Malades have their feet washed by members of the Order. As we recall, John's Gospel account of the Last Supper includes the story of Jesus washing the feet of His Apostles. They are dismayed that thier Lord and Teacher would act as servant to them, and, as we know Peter at first protests then accepts this gesture of humility from his Lord. Jesus tells us that as he has washed our feet, we are to do the same to one another. In this washing both parties are ministered to. The washer fullfils their call by Christ to be servant, to be the person of Christ in this act. The Malade, is reminded that humility comes not only from the act of washing anothers feet but also in the act of accepting this gift and this grace.