In an unprecedented ceremony, Vice Chancellor of Assam Don Bosco University, Stephen Mavely washed the feet of six males and females each, representing faculty, staff and students on the occasion of Good Friday today.
Jesus Christ washed the feet of his disciples at the Last Supper prior to his crucifixion on this day.
A university statement said Mavely was heeding to the call of Pope Francis who set the example of washing feet of men and women on Holy Thursday, first day of the Easter Triduum, during which a celebrant priest traditionally washes the feet of men.
After reading of the passage from John's Gospel (13:1-15) which narrates the incidents of the Last Supper, (Fr) Mavely wrapped a towel around his waist, knelt down before each one of 12 people and poured water on their feet, wiped off the water with a towel and kissed the feet.
"Each time I perform this action which Jesus did for his disciples, it has a deep impact on me. It makes me convinced that only from a position of service to others one can exercise authority," Mavely said at the homily.
The VC also invited other members of the congregation gathered for the Holy Thursday Eucharist to wash each other's feet, the release said.
Heeding to the VC's invitation several pairs of students, faculty and staff spontaneously came forward and washed each other's feet in a symbolic gesture of service and humility.
"It was indeed an act of humility which I have never done before, me washing the feet of another person," said Assistant Professor P Joseph who washed the feet of a security staff.
Several pairs of students, faculty and staff took turns to come before the Assembly and wash each other's feet, it added.
