Discover the traditions and meaning of Ash Wednesday for Christians today!

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Lenten season, reminding us of human mortality and the need for reconciliation with God. Many Christians attend special church services where they receive ashes on their foreheads. The ashes are a visible sign of repentance and a reminder of our return to dust in death. We are called to humility and faith in God for eternal life.

Ash Wednesday is always 46 days before Easter Sunday (40 days excluding Sundays). The observance of Ash Wednesday is rooted in various biblical traditions. In the Old Testament, ashes were a symbol of penance and mourning, and in the New Testament, Jesus fasted for 40 days in the wilderness before beginning his public ministry.

Lent is a time set aside each year for similar fasting, observing an intentional season of focus on Christ’s life, ministry, sacrifice, and resurrection. The Lenten season culminates with Holy Week, which includes Palm Sunday, Good Friday, and the joyous celebration of Easter.

PRAYERFUL GREETINGS to all on this coming Season of Lent,

Intellectual Life Office