Ash Wednesday

Please note, we have received special instructions from Rome in regards to the practice of the distribution of Ashes on Ash Wednesday during the Pandemic:

Distribution of Ashes on Ash Wednesday:

During this time of the pandemic, the Holy See has modified the method of distributing the ashes, as outlined in the following “Note”:  The Priest says the prayer for blessing the ashes. He sprinkles the ashes with holy water, without saying anything. Then he addresses all those present and only once says the formula as it appears in the Roman Missal, applying it to all in general: “Repent, and believe in the Gospel”, or “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return”.  The Priest then cleanses his hands, puts on a face mask, and distributes the ashes to those who come to him or, if appropriate, he goes to those who are standing in their places. The Priest takes the ashes and sprinkles them on the head of each one without saying anything. Notice there is to be no touching the forehead. The distribution takes place at the normal time after the homily.