Easter Traditions Evolve with Inclusivity in Penang’s Historic Churches

In the heart of George Town, Penang, the Church of the Assumption, one of Malaysia’s oldest Catholic churches founded in 1786, is embracing a significant shift in tradition this Holy Week. For the first time in its long history, the “Washing of the Feet” ritual on Maundy Thursday includes women alongside men, reflecting a broader push for inclusivity inspired by Pope Francis’ decree. This change, celebrated during the Mass of the Lord’s Supper, symbolizes humility and service, echoing the actions of Jesus Christ with his apostles.

A Break from Tradition

The “Washing of the Feet” ceremony, a key ritual of Holy Thursday, has historically involved only men, often twelve in number to represent the apostles. However, in recent years, Pope Francis has encouraged a more inclusive approach, opening the ritual to women and individuals from diverse backgrounds to emphasize the universal message of Christ’s teachings. At the Church of the Assumption, this shift is being implemented with care and reverence.

“While the tradition once involved only 12 men, it now includes women to reflect the community’s diversity. They will be chosen from the community, and I will wash and kiss their feet, following Jesus’ example with his 12 apostles” said Father Desmond Jansen, the assistant parish priest. His words highlight the church’s commitment to adapting ancient practices to contemporary values while maintaining their spiritual significance.

This year’s Holy Week began with Palm Sunday on April 13, and the church has planned a series of events leading up to Easter Sunday. From Monday to Wednesday, preparation masses are held from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., followed by confession sessions. On Thursday, the “Washing of the Feet” ceremony takes place from 6 p.m. onwards, marking the start of the Paschal Triduum—a three-day commemoration of Christ’s passion, death, burial, and resurrection.

Solemn Reflections on Good Friday

The tone shifts to somber reflection on Good Friday as the church commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus. Father Jansen described the day’s proceedings, noting that the service will begin with the Stations of the Cross, guiding the congregation through prayer and meditation on Christ’s journey. “There will be a service at noon, no mass or any form of singing, and everyone will leave silently after the service” he said. The Veneration of the Cross and the Reading of the Passion form the core of this solemn observance, stripping away celebration to focus on sacrifice.

At the nearby Pro-Cathedral of St George the Martyr Penang, similar observances are planned. Spokesperson Petra Oon shared that their Good Friday service, held from noon to 3 p.m., will feature seven preachers meditating on the last seven words Jesus spoke on the Cross. This reflective practice underscores the gravity of the day for the Catholic community in Penang.

From Vigil to Joyful Resurrection

The Easter Vigil on Saturday night brings a transition from mourning to hope. At the Church of the Assumption, the liturgy begins with the blessing of the Easter fire and the lighting of the Paschal candle, symbolizing Christ’s light overcoming death. “The Vigil also includes multiple readings from Scripture, the singing of the Exsultet or Easter Proclamation, and the baptism and confirmation of new members into the church” Father Jansen explained. This service marks a pivotal moment in the Holy Week, bridging sorrow with the anticipation of resurrection.

On Easter Sunday, the mood transforms into one of joy and thanksgiving. At St George the Martyr, celebrations include multiple services in English, Bahasa Malaysia, Tamil, and Chinese, reflecting Penang’s multicultural fabric. “We will be celebrating Easter Sunday with the distribution of Easter Eggs to mark the death and resurrection of Christ” said Oon. Services are scheduled throughout the morning, with English masses at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m., alongside a Bahasa Malaysia service at 10 a.m., and Tamil and Chinese services at 11:30 a.m.

A Season of Spiritual Renewal

Easter follows 40 days of Lent, a period dedicated to prayer, fasting, and alms-giving among Christians worldwide. In Penang, this season of repentance and renewal takes on a unique character, blending deep-rooted traditions with evolving practices. The inclusion of women in the “Washing of the Feet” ritual at the Church of the Assumption is not just a procedural change but a reflection of broader societal shifts towards equality and representation within religious spaces.

For the parishioners of George Town, these Holy Week observances offer a moment to connect with their faith and community. As Father Jansen and his congregation prepare to wash the feet of both men and women, they embody a message of universal service that transcends gender and background. Meanwhile, the multilingual services at St George the Martyr highlight the diversity of Malaysia’s Catholic community, uniting people across linguistic and cultural lines in shared celebration.

As Easter Sunday dawns, the streets of George Town will resonate with quiet joy, from the historic walls of the Church of the Assumption to the vibrant gatherings at St George the Martyr. For many, this Holy Week is not just a commemoration but a reminder of faith’s capacity to evolve, embracing all who seek its light.