Hey there,
It’s Ash Wednesday … one of the most attended services of the year. And it’s not even a holy day of obligation.
But there’s just something about getting ashes smeared on the forehead that attracts lots of people.
I’m not complaining though.
I love seeing the pews packed.
It’s been sad seeing so many empty pews since returning after Covid. I’m hoping lots of people decide to come back to Mass for Lent.
It’s an opportunity for us all to acknowledge our sins, extend our prayer life, fast, and prepare for Easter.
This week’s issue of Genuflect focuses on Ash Wednesday to help us all go a little deeper in our understanding to make the most of the experience and to draw closer to Our Lord.
I pray you have a blessed Lenten season.
Keep Believing-
Katy Barrilleaux
Founding Editor, Genuflect
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Why Lent Was Created
We’ve not always had the season of Lent leading up to Easter. So where did it come from? And why? Here’s how it grew out of preparation for catechumens.
Here’s Why Lent Was “Created” | Aleteia
Ash Wednesday in 2 Minutes
Here’s an entertaining 2-minute video that explains the meaning of Ash Wednesday. It’s well worth your time.
Ash Wednesday & Lent in Two Minutes | Busted Halo
5 Meanings of The Ashes
There is no denying the popularity of receiving ashes on Ash Wednesday. But to fully make the most of this tradition, you need to know the 5 things the ashes signify.
Five Meanings of The Ashes we Receive Today | Archdiocese of Washington
About Ash Wednesday
For a quick refresher, here are some facts you should know about Ash Wednesday.
Palms to Ashes: A Few Things to Know About Ash Wednesday | Catholic Sun
Let a Saint Help
If you’d like a little extra help this year with your Lenten promises, why not ask a Saint for help? Here are a couple of ways to go about getting some heavenly assistance.
Why Not Pick a Patron Saint to Help You Out This Lent? | Aleteia
Don’t Rub Off Your Ashes
Catholics should try not to rub their ashes off after Ash Wednesday Mass, an English bishop has said. Here’s why.
Don’t Rub Off Your Ashes, Urges Bishop | Catholic Herald
What’s on Your Forehead?
Here’s something we can all relate to. Being warned a million times that we have dirt on our forehead. Or asked what we have on our forehead. It can get embarrassing.
Ash Wednesday Can be Excruciatingly Embarrassing if You Work in an Office | Metro
Catholic Guide to Ashes
This graphic has been around for a while, but it never gets old. Check out this visual guide to decipher what the shape of your ashes means.
A Catholic Guide to Ashes, Extended Edition | ChurchPOP
Ultimate Prayer Guide
A couple of weeks ago, we covered the topic of prayer. It’s chock full of all kinds of prayer resources to help you enhance your prayer life during the Lenten season. Here it is again in case you missed it … or are a procrastinator like me and are ready to dig in now.
Your Ultimate Prayer Resource | Genuflect
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Digital Inspiration
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