March 5, 2025: Ash Wednesday (ABC)

Introduction

Today we begin the liturgical season of Lent, during which we prepare our hearts and minds for the celebration of Easter. The season begins on Ash Wednesday and lasts 40 days, excluding Sundays — commemorating the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the desert (Matthew 4:1-11).

During Lent, Catholics are called to emulate Jesus’ sacrifice and journey toward redemption, fostering a sense of humility and self-discipline. We do this through the three main practices, or pillars of Lent: prayer, fasting, and almsgiving.

Through the symbolic act of receiving ashes on Ash Wednesday, Catholics are reminded of their mortality and urged to repentance, reinforcing the solemn nature of this period of preparation.

Ultimately, Lent is a time for deepening one’s faith, cultivating a spirit of contrition, and anticipating the joyous resurrection of Christ on Easter Sunday.

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