Vatican:
Pope Benedict XVI on Thursday celebrated the Last Supper Mass at the Basilica of St John Lateran which begins three days of Easter celebrations.
During the mass the Pope washed the feet of 12 priests symbolising humility and commemorating Christ's last supper with his 12 apostles on the evening before his crucifixion.
Benedict poured water from a golden pitcher as each priest held his foot over a golden basin, then the pontiff dabbed each foot dry with a white cloth.
The tradition is also a reminder to be of service to those in need.
Money collected from the faithful during the feet-washing service was destined to help alleviated the victims of the Japanese earthquake and tsunami.
On Friday evening Benedict XVI will preside at the traditional Holy Way of the Cross at the Coliseum.