Catholics throughout the world mark the beginning of the season of Lent by receiving ash on their foreheads on Ash Wednesday. This tradition has its roots in the Old Testament, where wearing ashes was a common sign of repentance for sins, and a sign of one’s humility before God.  There are also writings from the Second-century Church which point out to this same truth. Since Lent is a season of penitential renewal through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, it’s appropriate that this ancient sign marks the beginning of the season. 

Traditionally, ashes used on Ash Wednesday are gathered up after palms from the previous year's Palm Sunday are burned. They are then blessed before being used in the ceremony. This symbolically connects the beginning of Lent with its end, connecting our change of heart with Christ’s passion, death, and resurrection. 

Ashes are usually distributed as part of the Mass on Ash Wednesday, often after the homily. The priest or another minister applies the ashes on the foreheads of the faithful, by saying: “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return,” or “repent and believe in the Gospel.” The Gospel for Ash Wednesday is a reminder that the real purpose of the season of Lent is not to make public demonstrations of piety—even the wearing of ashes—but to seek conversion of heart.  (Cf. USCCB.ORG)

Catholics are expected to fast on Ash Wednesday, except for a serious reason. Children and the elderly are exempt from the fasting requirement on Ash Wednesday and during Lent. Fasting means consuming only one full meal a day; two smaller meals that do not together add up to a full meal also are allowed. Catholics are also not supposed to eat meat on Ash Wednesday. They also are expected to give up meat on Fridays during Lent. Fasting is not observed on Sundays, even during Lent. 

I wish you all a grace-filled Lenten Season

Together in Christ,

Fr. Robain