Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, a 40-day season of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving in preparation for Easter. It is a solemn day of repentance, calling the faithful to turn away from sin and embrace the Gospel.
During the Ash Wednesday liturgy, ashes are blessed and imposed on the foreheads of the faithful in the shape of a cross, accompanied by the words:
“Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return” (Genesis 3:19)
or
“Repent, and believe in the Gospel” (Mark 1:15).
These ashes, made from the burned palms of the previous year’s Palm Sunday, symbolize mortality, humility, and the call to conversion.
Event Highlights:
- Holy Mass & Distribution of Ashes: The faithful will receive ashes as a sign of repentance and commitment to spiritual renewal.
- Call to Prayer, Fasting, and Almsgiving: Reflection on how these three pillars of Lent help us grow closer to God.
- Scriptural Reflection: A homily will focus on Christ’s invitation to repentance and renewal, inspired by Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18.
- Encouragement for a Fruitful Lenten Journey: Practical ways to deepen faith, including personal prayer, acts of charity, and self-discipline.
Ash Wednesday is a day of fasting and abstinence, reminding us of Christ’s sacrifice and our need for spiritual purification. As we enter the sacred season of Lent, let us seek God’s mercy and prepare our hearts for the joy of Easter.
All are invited to participate in this solemn and meaningful day of reflection and renewal.