<P> Among groups that do not observe foot washing as an ordinance or rite, the example of Jesus is usually held to be symbolic and didactic . Among these groups, foot washing is nevertheless sometimes literally practiced . First, some reserve it to be a practice of hospitality or a work of necessity . Secondly, some present it as a dramatic lesson acted out in front of the congregation . </P> <P> Groups descending from the 1708 Schwarzenau Brethren, such as the Grace Brethren, Church of the Brethren, Brethren Church, Old German Baptist Brethren, and the Dunkard Brethren regularly practice foot washing (generally called "feetwashing") as one of three ordinances that compose their Lovefeast, the others being the Eucharist and a fellowship meal . Historically related groups such as the Amish and most Mennonites also wash feet, tracing the practice to the 1632 Dordrecht Confession of Faith . For members, this practice promotes humility towards and care for others, resulting in a higher egalitarianism among members . </P> <P> Many Baptists observe the literal washing of feet as a third ordinance . The communion and foot washing service is practiced regularly by members of the Separate Baptists in Christ, General Association of Baptists, Free Will Baptists, Primitive Baptists, Union Baptists, Old Regular Baptist, Christian Baptist Church of God, and Brethren in Christ . Feet washing is also practiced as a third ordinance by many Southern Baptists, General Baptists, and Independent Baptists . </P> <P> In the mid-1830s, Joseph Smith introduced the original temple rites of the Latter Day Saint movement in Kirtland, Ohio, which primarily involved foot washing, followed by speaking in tongues and visions . This foot washing took place exclusively among men, and was based upon the Old and New Testament . After Joseph Smith was initiated into the first three degrees of Freemasonry, this was adapted into the whole body "Endowment" ritual more similar to contemporary Mormon practice, which is nearly identical to Masonic temple rites, and does not specifically involve the feet . In 1843, Smith included a foot washing element in the faith's second anointing ceremony in which elite married couples are anointed as heavenly monarchs and priests . </P>

What did the washing of the feet symbolize