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Holidays and Observances - Why Is Ash Wednesday So Solemn?

Why is Ash Wednesday so solemn?

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, the forty days before Easter in the Christian religion. During this period, Christians examine their behavior, ask forgiveness for their sins (wrongdoings), and give to the poor. During the church service on Ash Wednesday, a priest or minister marks a small cross using ashes on each worshipper's forehead. The priest reminds the worshippers with the ashes that death is punishment for sin, so they much ask forgiveness and atone (make amends) for any wrongdoing.

Further Information: Dues, Greg. Catholic Customs and Traditions: A Popular Guide. Mystic, Conn.: Twenty-Third Publications, 1989, pp. 88–90.

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