Ash Wednesday

Ash Wednesday is a Christian holiday observed by the Anglican Church and other denominations. It falls on the first day of the season of Lent and marks the beginning of the 40-day period of fasting, prayer, and penance leading up to Easter.

In the Anglican Church, Ash Wednesday is traditionally marked by the imposition of ashes. This involves the priest marking the forehead of each person with ashes in the shape of a cross, symbolizing both death and repentance. The ashes are made from the palm fronds blessed on the previous Palm Sunday and symbolize the dust from which God made humans.

Along with the imposition of ashes, Ash Wednesday is typically marked by fasting and abstaining from certain luxuries. Many Anglicans attend a special Ash Wednesday service, which may include hymns, prayers, and a homily or sermon. The focus of the day is on reflection, penance, and turning back to God in preparation for the joy of Easter.