I was delighted to see Pope Benedict XVI restore an ancient tradition by removing his shoes and chasuble for the veneration of the Cross.
He also did not carry his crozier or wear his pallium for the liturgy. He did not even wear his ring. The simplicity was outstanding and beautifully fitting.
The removal of the chasuble reminds us of when Jesus was stripped of his clothes and also strips the celebrant of rank. He approaches the cross without earthly honor; as a simple man of faith.
The removal of the shoes reminds us that we are standing on holy ground. As it says in Exodus 3:5, "Remove the sandals from your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground.
There are many parishes where all the faithful are invited to remove their shoes for the veneration of the Cross.
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