17th February 2021
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Season of Lent, and for many it involves the smearing of our foreheads with ashes in the shape of a cross as a sacred reminder that all humans are made of dust and shall return to dust—but “we are dust loved by God“, reminds Pope Francis. God has breathed his life, his spirit, into us. It’s a time of reflection, prayer and charity.
This year, however, Ash Wednesday will look and feel different because of COVID-19 health protocols that require face coverings, social distancing and — most challenging for conferring ashes during the traditional rite — discourage physical contact. As we are in lockdown there will be no public services. Though many of us have not met in person for the past 11 months, we adapt to this new reality and mark our Lenten beginning and Lenten Journey in new ways.
Whether we are gathered in front of our church radio sets or TV or computer screens or mobile phones, we will connect with each other over the airwaves and cyberspace, holding each other in prayer and finding ways to reflect and remember the promises of God – “I am with you always”.
Join us on-line – Mass and Blessing of Ashes at 10am
Image from Oblates
