The imposition of ashes on foreheads marked the start of Lent March 2 around the diocese and the world. The 40-day period is a time of penance ahead of the Easter season. Many Mass-going Catholics remembered the people of Ukraine in their prayers, honoring Pope Francis’ request that the faithful offer their Ash Wednesday fast for peace.
Bishop Michael F. Burbidge celebrated Mass at the Cathedral of St. Thomas More in Arlington on Ash Wednesday. In his homily, he encouraged people to take up prayer, fasting and almsgiving this Lent in order to prepare for heaven.
“The ashes that will be imposed on our foreheads today will quickly disappear,” he said. “It’s a reminder that the things of this world quickly fade and that life here on earth is merely a journey leading, pray God, to the eternal peace Christ has won for us by his cross and resurrection.
“This Lent, don’t be weighed down by the things of this world. Keep your eyes fixed on our true and final destination.”
During a morning Mass at St. Veronica Church in Chantilly, school children and parishioners gathered to receive ashes and pray. Father Richard E. Dyer, parochial vicar, spoke about seizing the season. “We recognize we are sinners, and we need the help of the only one who can help us,” he said in his homily. “We are taking this time to more perfectly embrace the graces of our baptism. It’s a time of anxious preparation as we await the celebration of the risen Christ.”
