Other than being the start of Christian repentance period, how much do you know about Ash Wednesday?
Ash Wednesday is one of the liturgical calendar’s most important holy days in Christianity that is extensively observed. It gets its name from the Christian practice of putting ashes on believers’ foreheads and performing a repentance vow.
Here’s all you need to know about Ash Wednesday in the Philippines.
What is Ash Wednesday all about?
Ash Wednesday, also known as the Day of Ashes, is a day of fasting, abstinence, and repentance. On this day, Christians abstain from all foods except bread and water until sundown.
Ash Wednesday is a day that comes after Shrove Tuesday or Pancake Day, which is 47 days before Easter Sunday.
The eponymous ash for the church event is traditionally made by burning palm from the previous year’s Palm Sunday service.
Ashes have biblical importance as a way of expressing grief, both in the sense of mourning and in the sense of expressing sorrow for sins and flaws.
Christians have used ashes as an external expression of repentance since the beginning of time. In fact, their use at the start of Lent goes back to the early Middle Ages.
This year, Ash Wednesday falls on March 5, 2025.
Also Read: Is Ash Wednesday a Holiday in the Philippines in 2025?
Rituals and Traditions
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, a period of repentance, fasting, and spiritual preparation for Christians. During Ash Wednesday services, believers are marked on the forehead with ashes in the shape of a cross.
This practice serves as a symbol of sorrow and regret for past sins.
The black ashes represent the dust from which God created humanity and serve as a reminder of mortality. As the ashes are applied, a priest or pastor says, “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.”
The Importance of Ash Wednesday Observance
Ash Wednesday is primarily associated with repentance. It is the act of acknowledging sinful behaviors, past misdeeds, and Jesus’ sacrifice for our atonment.
The wearing of ashes is a sign of penance as mentioned in the writings from the second century church. A priest or a family member may deliver ashes to persons who are sick or shut-in in particular instances.
How long does Lent last?
Lent is a shortened form of the Old English word Lenten (spring season). It is a 40-day period of fasting (except Sundays) that culminates in Easter week.
Lent season ends on Maundy Thursday (April 17) or Holy Saturday (April 19), depending on the Christian religion.
Other than fasting, those who observe Lent may also give up certain indulgences during this time. Meanwhile, others may attend church more frequently or offer an additional prayer every day.
For information about mass schedules for Ash Wednesday in the Philippines, check out the links below:
Keep Reading: Is Ash Wednesday a Holiday in the Philippines in 2025?
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