Explaining Ash Wednesday: The First Day of Lent

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, a 40-day period observed by many Christians around the world. In 2025, Ash Wednesday falls on March 5. This day is significant in Christian faith as it serves as a reminder of human mortality and the need for repentance.

What Happens on Ash Wednesday?

Catholics gather in churches to receive ashes on their foreheads in the shape of a cross, symbolizing repentance and humility. The ashes are made from palms blessed on the previous year’s Palm Sunday. The priest says, "You are dust, and to dust you shall return," reflecting the belief in human mortality and the cycle of life.

What is Lent?

Lent is a 46-day period (excluding Sundays) that mirrors the 40 days Jesus spent fasting and praying in the desert. This period involves practices like fasting, prayer, and almsgiving. It is a time for Christians to reflect, repent, and grow closer to God. The season ends the day before Easter Sunday, in 2025, April 17.

Not all Christian denominations observe Ash Wednesday and Lent, but it is common in Catholic, Lutheran, Methodist, Episcopal, and Presbyterian churches.

Through this period of self-discipline, believers seek spiritual renewal, preparing for the celebration of Christ’s resurrection at Easter.