THE Archbishop of York has washed the feet of twelve people at York Minster at a service to commemorate Maundy Thursday.

Dr John Sentamu took part in the ceremony to remember the last meal Jesus shared with his disciples before his crucifixion.

The Archbishop said: “This week leading up to Easter is full of apparent contradictions: the Lord becomes a servant and washes his disciples’ feet. The crown of glory is a crown of thorns. The cross, an instrument of death, becomes the way to resurrection and new life.

"We remember Jesus’ suffering on Good Friday, knowing that death is not the end. Jesus’s self-sacrifice means victory, hope, and new life for us. There is nothing better to celebrate than the victory of love: sins are forgiven, reconciliation made possible, and hope restored.”

Kate Whitworth, learning manager at York Minster, was one of the people whose feet were washed as part of the service, and said: “It was a real privilege to be asked if I wanted to take part in the service – I’ve never done this before. It’s such an important service in the church’s year that I wanted to be involved.”

More than a hundred clergy from across the Diocese of York visited the Minster yesterday (THURS), to renew their Ordination Vows, and receive oils to use in their ministries of baptism, confirmation, and anointing the sick.