Shoe Shine, Sir, Madam?
The Bishop Leicester and senior clergy rolled up their sleeves and cassocks from 2pm on 20 March to clean and polish the shoes of dozens of workers in the city.
The church figures buffed the footwear of passers-by in a symbolic act echoing Jesus’ washing of his disciples feet, which the Bible teaches took place on the night of the Last Supper before his trial and crucifixion on Good Friday.
Also that day, Leicester Cathedral hosted a
special ‘Chrism Mass’ where Church of England clergy from across that
diocese gathered to renew their ordination vows and receive a blessing
on the oil which ministers use to anoint the sick and dying, and the oil
which they use in Christening services to make the sign of the cross on
the newly-baptised person’s forehead.
Rt Revd Tim Stevens was joined by other vicars and friends from across
the city and beyond at a footwear polishing centre in the Cathedral
Precinct from 2pm to 5 pm.
Revd Mike Harrison, the Director of
Mission and Ministry, said: "This is one way to respond to Jesus. He set
an example of humble service by washing his disciples feet."
This symbolic yet practical service coincided with the
recommended action for Maundy Thursday in the Church of England’s Love
Life Live Lent campaign. The interactive project aimed to share
recommended actions to make the world a better place in small and simple
ways.
