‘Paschal mystery’ means what we profess in the Creed: “On the third day he rose again”!…Yes. “Why does the Church place ashes on our foreheads today? Why does she remind us of death? Death which is the effect of sin! Why?…To prepare us for Christ’s Passover–for the paschal mystery of the Redeemer of the world. The ashes symbolize our mortality and ongoing need for repentance and redemption through Christ’s Passion–an outward sign of interior penance. 3:19) Or, “Turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel.” Did you know that anyone can receive ashes on Ash Wednesday?Ĭatholics receive ashes on their foreheads with the words: “Remember, you are dust and to dust you shall return.” (Gen. While it is not a holy day of obligation, we are invited to attend Mass, receive ashes, and listen to the message of the Gospel. This day is marked by the spiritual practices of fasting and abstinence. The penitential season of Lent lasts for 40 days (Sundays are not included in this number). Ash Wednesday marks the first day of the Lenten season!