Danny Federico
reporter3.riverbendnews@gmail.com
"By the sweat of your brow you will eat your food until you return to the ground, since from it you were taken; for dust you are and to dust you will return." (Genesis 3:19 NIV)
On Wednesday, March 5, individuals across the globe will usher in the beginning of Lent, a 40-day period dedicated to fasting, prayer and reflection, by observing Ash Wednesday. Although this day is notable among the Roman Catholic Church, it is also recognized by various denominations, including Anglican, Lutheran and some Protestant churches.
Lent serves as a time for Christians to prepare for Easter by reflecting on the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the desert. During this period, many Christians practice fasting and self-sacrifice, such as not eating certain foods or engaging in specific habits, in order to foster spiritual growth and discipline.
According to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, unless exempt due to medical reasons, members ages 18 to 59 should only eat "one full meal, as well as two smaller meals that together are not equal to a full meal." Additionally, members ages 14 and older should abstain from eating meat during this 40-day observance.
During Ash Wednesday services, clergy bless the foreheads of congregants by marking them in the shape of a cross with ashes. These blessings are typically accompanied by the words, "Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return" or "Turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel." The ashes, which generally come from the previous year's Palm Sunday palm branches, symbolize mortality and a call for repentance.
As Lent begins, Christians are invited to deepen their faith through acts of penance, prayer and charity leading up to the celebration of Easter, which commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ.