Some observations on the rubrics of Holy Thursday's Mandatum
1) The foot washing is optional.
2) The number of men is not specified.
3) The washing is of both feet of each man.
4) There is no kissing of the feet called for in the ritual.
2) The number of men is not specified.
3) The washing is of both feet of each man.
4) There is no kissing of the feet called for in the ritual.
Here are the relevant Holy Thursday rubrics (emphasis is mine) of new English Edition Missal 2011
The Washing of Feet
10. After the Homily, where a pastoral reason suggests it, the Washing of Feet follows.
11. The men who have been chosen are led by the ministers to seats prepared in a suitable place. Then the Priest (removing his chasuble if necessary) goes to each one, and, with the help of the ministers, pours water over each one's feet and then dries them.
