Regional Synod of Canada - Reformed Church in America

Pioneer Christian Monthly

Date - June/84

Contributor - Janet Koolhaas

Title - Foot-washing and Servanthood

Topic - Footwashing

An interview with Rev. Dale Bauman, Pastor of Moorefield Mennonite Church and Berea Mennonite Church near Drayton, Ontario.

Q.Historically, when did foot-washing become an accepted part of the Mennonite worship? Are there other denominations or groups that practice this as well?

A. It is my understanding that the Anabaptists at the time of the Reformation began practicing foot-washing. The descendants of the early Anabaptists, such as Church of Brethren, Brethren in Christ, Mennonite and Amish, still practice it. I am sure there are others that I am not aware of.

Q. What is the scriptural basis cited by Mennonites to support this practice?

A. John 13:2 - 17, the scene of the Last Supper in which Jesus washes the feet of the disciples.

Q. Why do Mennonites feel that this is an important practice? Are there tangible benefits?

A. We see foot-washing as another symbol to remind us of the life of service and servanthood that Jesus fulfilled on this earth. It is a sign of humility. The basin and towel is also tied in with Jesus' command that we continue his mission here on earth (Matt. 28). Washing feet tells of the nature of that mission - that servant-love and caring for the wholeness of the world's need will win the world.

Q. Jesus washed the feet of the disciples during the scene of the Last Supper. At that time he instituted the sacrament of communion and commanded us to "do this in remembrance of Me". Was the act of foot-washing included in that commandment or was it meant to each concept - like an illustration?

A. Washing feet is an illustration. It is a symbol of an inward and spiritual principle. We also see communion as an illustration, a symbol. In the Mennonite Church we don't have sacraments; we have ordinances. The foot washing service is a reminder for it brings to mind the humility and servanthood of Christ.

Q. Does the organ play while this is being done? Do people talk while washing one another's feet?

A. The period of foot-washing can be a time of silence, singing, or background music, with very little talking taking place.

Q. Is everyone expected to participate?

A. No. Some people do remain seated and are allowed to abstain from foot-washing.

Q. Do all Mennonite congregations practice foot-washing?

A. Some of the larger Mennonite churches have stopped foot-washing at communion because of the logistics of it all. It doesn't lend itself to an assembly line approach. Foot washing also loses some of its meaning and symbolism when you do it with a stranger. Because of this, some churches encourage their people to practice it in their small fellowship groups or have it as part of a "love feast".

Q. Do you find the foot-washing ceremony to be meaningful in your own life?

A. When I was a teenager, foot-washing meant nothing to me. But as my Christian experience has deepened, foot washing has become very meaningful. The towel and basin symbolize a key Mennonite concept: discipline. For me to kneel and wash my brother's feet is difficult, for I am reminded that I need to submit myself to him and to the church. I need to be open and ready to accept their discipline.

Q. Could you summarize the relationship between the act of foot-washing and the general attitude of servanthood?

A. Jesus commanded us to love one another as he has loved us. We as a church are called to demonstrate the servant love of Jesus in word and deed (Matt. 25:31 - 46). Servant love draws persons into a community of care and concern.

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