Lichfield Cathedral’s Maundy Thursday Ritual

Lichfield Cathedral holds a unique Maundy Thursday tradition of foot washing, in its rare medieval pedilavium, an elaborate foot-washing arcade. ‍

Many churches across the land still practice this ritual every year, but few have such spectacular architecture to host it. Pilgrims would sit here and have their feet washed as part of a humble bathing tradition in keeping with the spirit of the cathedral’s 7th-century founder St Chad, who used to immerse himself in a holy well half a mile to the north-east. In times gone by, Lichfield would offer this service to pilgrims every day, not just on Maundy Thursday.

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Foot washing is a simple act, yet it carries deep meaning especially in the context of pilgrimage. In the Christian tradition, it is an act of humility rooted in Maundy Thursday, when Jesus washed the feet of his disciples. In doing so, he reversed expected roles: a teacher serving his followers. On pilgrimage, the road has a way of levelling everyone. Titles, wealth, and background fade into the distance when all share the same path, the same weather, and the same physical challenges.

Many spiritual traditions across the world and in Britain include foot washing, as a way to honour guests, purify oneself, connect with a holy place or festival, or to return to the hearth after walking barefoot on sacred ground. You can explore this ritual by including a holy well or sacred spring on your journey, walking in morning dew, and washing your own or your fellow pilgrim’s feet.

Pilgrimage is defined by movement, but this act invites pause, reflection, and gratitude. It is a quiet expression of shared humanity, reminding us that no one walks above another, and that every journey begins and continues with humility. Why not take the time today to offer to wash a loved one's feet, or perhaps take care of your own.