[mlizzy]

The primary argument for an all male priesthood us that Christ only chose men as His apostles. Its the same reason men are chosen for the washing of the feet. The Pope has moved away from this tradition n a very public fashion. It is unsettling.

I agree with you, in that this is causing arguing (division) between good Catholics, and I don't see any "peacemaker" in that. Also, IMO, it's odd for any man to kiss the feet of a woman he's not a significant other to. Jesus didn't do it as you say; we just watched Passion of the Christ and we re-checked. :)

[Mrs. Don-o]

But women washed and kissed Jesus feet, and dried them with their hair. Really over the top behavior. Inappropriate on so many levels at once. Sinful women. "Don't you know what kind of a woman it is that's toucing you?" they said. And the Pharisees were, predictably, aghast.

Jesus defended the women, too, which ended up making the Pharisees despise Him. His behavior was too disturbing and unconventional to be a very good peacemaker, I suppose.