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Why do some Christian churches perform foot-washing rituals on Maundy Thursday?

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Raphael: Resurrection of Christ — Easter *Resurrection of Christ*, oil on wood panel by Raphael, 1499–1502; in the Museu de Arte de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil. 52 × 44 cm.

Christian churches perform foot-washing rituals on Maundy Thursday to commemorate the Last Supper, during which Jesus washed the feet of his Twelve Apostles.12

The early Christian church introduced this practice to imitate the humility and selfless love demonstrated by Jesus. By performing this act, which was historically a gesture of hospitality performed by a servant or host for guests, participants seek to embody the spirit of humble leadership and the "new commandment" Jesus gave his disciples: to love one another as he loved them.12

Today, the foot-washing ceremony is observed in various traditions, including Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and several Protestant denominations, such as Anglican, Lutheran, and Methodist churches. While the specific liturgical implementation may vary, the rite remains a symbolic reflection of Christ's service to his followers on the night before his Crucifixion.321