Ash Wednesday
This day marks the beginning of the 40 days of Christian Lent, leading up to Easter Sunday. It is a day of reflection and repentance.
This day marks the beginning of the 40 days of Christian Lent, leading up to Easter Sunday. It is a day of reflection and repentance.
Renee Harleston
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The exact date of origin for Ash Wednesday is unknown, but scholars note that it was more regularly celebrated after Christianity became legal. According to Encyclopedia Britannica, the 40 days of fasting typically associated with Christian Lent were established in the 7th century, “in imitation of Jesus Christ’s fast in the desert.”
When it is observed
Ash Wednesday takes place on the first day of Lent, 46 days before Easter. The holiday typically occurs between February 4 and March 11, depending on the date of Easter.
Traditions
Church services are held on this day, and in some churches, like the Roman Catholic church, members might receive a mark of the cross made of ashes upon their foreheads. It symbolizes death and repentance. The ashes come from burned palm branches used during church services on Palm Sunday, which symbolizes the palm fronds covering Jesus’ path on his way to Jerusalem.
Ash Wednesday is considered a day of fasting and abstinence for those who observe the holiday. According to tradition, observers typically eat no meat and only one full meal. Ash Wednesday is one of the most attended days of mass for Roman Catholics. Other denominations such as Anglicans and Lutherans may also hold services for Ash Wednesday.