Ash Wednesday marks the start of Lent, a period of fasting, reflection — and fish fries

Behind the Scenes Ash Wednesday Marks the Start of Lent

As we mark the beginning of Lent with Ash Wednesday, many of us may be wondering what this season of spiritual reflection is all about. For those who observe it, Lent is a 40-day period leading up to Easter that offers an opportunity for introspection, self-improvement, and closer connection with our faith community.

In recent years, the tradition of Ash Wednesday has evolved to include more contemporary expressions of worship, such as Ashes to Go – where clergy and lay leaders take ash distributions to busy city streets, hospitals, and other areas where people might not have access to traditional church services. This innovative approach allows individuals from all walks of life to participate in the ritual and reflect on their relationship with God.

For many, Lent is a time for fasting, prayer, and acts of kindness. It's an opportunity to re-evaluate priorities, seek forgiveness, and work towards personal growth. The season also provides a chance to deepen our understanding of the Christian narrative, particularly through the lens of Jesus' 40-day journey in the wilderness.

As we embark on this sacred journey together, it's worth noting that Lent is not just about individual reflection – it's also an opportunity for communities to come together and support one another. From fish fries to soup suppers, many churches host events that bring people closer to their faith and to each other.

Whether you're a seasoned practitioner of Lent or simply looking to explore the season in a new way, I hope this marks the start of a meaningful journey for you.

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.