But Vatican Radio carried the Mass live, and Francis told the detainees that Jesus washed the feet of his disciples on the eve of his crucifixion in a gesture of love and service.

NPR: Pope Washes Feet Of Young Detainees In Ritual

"When Jesus washed the feet of those who were with him on the first Holy Thursday, he desired to teach all a lesson about the meaning of service, using a gesture that included all members of the community, " the office said in a statement.

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The pontiff told inmates that Jesus had washed the feet of his disciples in a gesture of service, Vatican Radio reported.

BBC: Pope Francis washes prisoners' feet on Maundy Thursday

During Thursday's intimate service at Casal del Marmo, the Pope washed and kissed the feet of 12 young detainees to replicate the Bible's account of Jesus Christ's gesture of humility towards his 12 apostles on the night before he was crucified.

BBC: Pope Francis washes prisoners' feet on Maundy Thursday

During the intimate service at Casal del Marmo, the Argentine pontiff washed and kissed the feet of 12 young detainees to replicate the Bible's account of Jesus Christ's gesture of humility towards his 12 apostles on the night before he was crucified.

BBC: Pope Francis leads Good Friday services in Rome