Pope Leo XIII Revives Tradition, Urges Unity

0:00It's April 2. From coast to coast, this is US News Today, powered by AI. I'm Cory with the story. Pope Leo XIV kicked off Holy Thursday by washing the feet of 12 priests, bringing back a longstanding tradition in the ritual at St. John, Lateran, Basilica. His predecessor had switched things up, including women, laypeople, and folks from other face in these ceremonies at prisons and detention centers. Leo went traditional with 11 priests. He ordained last year, plus the head of Rome's main seminary. He poured water from a golden pitcher, dried their feet with a white towel, and kissed them, calling it a humble act that flips our ideas of power and shows true service like Jesus did at the last supper. This shift highlights Leo's push to lift up the clergy after years of criticism over clerical attitudes and abuse scandals, marking a clear change. From the old Pope's approach, meanwhile, in fresh Vatican prayer calls, Leo urged everyone to support priests as beloved guides, praying for them without judgment and standing by.

1:04Their side, setting a tone for stronger church unity this Holy Week.