In a departure from tradition which has drawn both acclaim and criticism, Pope Francis celebrated the Holy Thursday Mass not at the Basilica of St. John Lateran, as was expected, but at a Roman juvenile prison, Casal del Marmo—where he washed the feet of twelve detainees including two girls and two Muslims.

It was not as the world expected; but then, Francis has daily shown himself to be a pope of surprises. In his humble liturgy, he reminded us that we encounter Christ in the imprisoned, and in all people—not only those who serve in public ministry. And in teaching the youth at Casal del Marmo the importance of service, he teaches us all.

Vatican Radio has provided a translation and transcription of Pope Francis’ unscripted homily to the incarcerated young men and women: