The season of Lent begins this week with Ash Wednesday (18th February) when we start our annual season of penance in preparation for Easter, with its emphasis on increased spiritual discipline and observance of the practices of penitence. The ceremonies of Ash Wednesday include at each Mass the imposition of ashes, expressive of the words of Scripture: “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return” (cf. Genesis 3:19).
In this holy season of Lent, especially by the practices of prayer, fasting and almsgiving, and including special opportunities offered in church at this time (e.g. Stations of the Cross, Lenten Oratory), each of us is invited to be renewed in Christian discipleship. Many also choose to attend Mass more frequently in Lent by attending one or more times during the week at the 6.30am or 8.30am Masses. Whilst each of us should choose forms of penance to adopt individually in this season, we recall that Lenten penance is a communal act which unites us more deeply to our brothers and sisters and especially those in any need.
Integral to Lent is the celebration of the Sacrament of Confession. The second precept of the Church (“You shall confess your sins at least once a year”,(Catechism of the Catholic Church 2042) is traditionally observed at this time and the Church earnestly invites us to more frequent participation in this Sacrament in the season of Lent. There are additional times of confession on Shrove Tuesday.
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With regards to Church law, Ash Wednesday is a fast day for those between their 18th and 59th birthdays. This allows for one full meal and up to two light snacks if necessary. We do not eat outside these meal times according to the Church’s tradition and law. Ash Wednesday is also a day of abstinence for those aged 14+, which forbids the eating of meat on this day.