ASH WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 18, 2026

"Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return" or "Repent, and believe in the Gospel"

Today is Ash Wednesday . Lent begins. The three traditional Lenten practices are fasting, almsgiving (acts of charity) and praying. We are called to follow Jesus into the desert.

Fasting is a discipline of the Catholic Church. Fasting is a powerful form of prayer, helps us discern God’s will, express sorrow for sins, work on humility and helps us detach from worldly things.

Almsgiving or performing charitable deeds allows us to focus on others and away from ourselves. Donate food, clothing, capital to charitable organization such as Catholic Charities and Meals on Wheels for Seniors

Praying includes a close communion with God, praying the rosary, meditating on the mysteries, stations of the cross and accompanying our Mother Mary through the different scenes, Sacred Heart devotions, and devotions especially concentrating on the humanity, suffering and death of Jesus Christ. Daily Mass and daily Communion are the ultimate prayers.

We all start Lent with such gusto. Do not quit but seek companions to help us on this road, if we should tire. God knows our intentions. Do your best and God will give you the grace to stay the course.

In our humility let’s begin Lent!

God Bless You