Cardinal Advincula: Washing of the Feet highlights humility, hope amid trials

MANILA — Manila Archbishop Jose F. Cardinal Advincula led the traditional washing of the feet on Holy Thursday, choosing twelve “Formators of the Word and Sacraments” to highlight humility, service, and the Church’s mission to bring hope in difficult times.

The rite, which recalled Jesus Christ’s gesture of washing the feet of His disciples, featured individuals recognized for their role in teaching and deepening the faith.

The twelve formators are: Fr. Carlo Magno Marcelo (priest), Sr. Leysis Navarro, MSP (nun), Ms. Ma. Rosalina Flores (lector), Mr. Jomer Viteno (adult catechist), Ms. Glaiza Maria Magna (youth catechist), Ms. Nesie Dela Cruz (BEC leader), Ms. Isa Reyes (Lectio Divina minister), Mr. Arun Gogna (Catholic vlogger), Mr. Jan Silan (lay preacher), Mr. Xavier Apostol (theology professor), Mr. Noe Dora (apologist), and Mrs. Angela Silan (parent).

In his homily for the Mass of the Lord’s Supper, the Archbishop reminded the faithful of the deeper meaning of Holy Week:

“Hindi lang naman tayo nagbabalik-tanaw, tayo ay nagbabalik-loob at nagbubukas ng ating mga sarili sa kaligtasan at pag-asang handog sa atin ng Diyos… Makilahok tayo ng buong puso sa liturhiya at mga pagdiriwang upang maramdaman natin na sa gitna ng mga pagsubok at krisis nating pinagdadaanan sa mga panahong ito, ay hindi tayo pinababayaan ng Panginoon.”

The washing of the feet, central to the Holy Thursday liturgy, served as a reminder that in times of crisis, the Church must remain a source of light, humility, and hope.