Pope Francis Visits Regina Coeli Prison, Expresses Solidarity with Inmates

Rome: Pope Francis told inmates at a Rome prison where he washed inmates’ feet in the traditional Holy Thursday Last Supper rite in 2018 that this time he could not wash their feet as he recovers from life-threatening pneumonia but he was close to them. Francis, during his visit to the Regina Coeli prison, expressed his desire to be present among the inmates.

According to Ansa News Agency, Francis conveyed his ongoing commitment to the inmates by saying, “I like to do every year what Jesus did on Holy Thursday, the washing of feet, in prison,” to the 70 or so prisoners who met him. He further added, “This year I cannot do it, but I can and want to be close to you. I pray for you and your families.”

At the end of a moment of prayer, the pope greeted each of the inmates individually in the Rotonda. Finally, he addressed those present again to say the Our Father together and impart his blessing. The visit lasted about 30 minutes.