Mangaluru: The faithful gathered in large numbers at Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte, Mangaluru to mark Ash Wednesday, the solemn beginning of the Lenten season. The morning service began at 6:30 a.m., featuring the blessing and imposition of ashes on devotees, symbolising repentance and spiritual renewal. A second service is scheduled to be held in the evening.
Reflection on the significance of Lent
The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Rev. Fr Stifan Perera, Director of Infant Jesus Shrine. In his homily, Fr Perera reflected on the significance of Lent and the importance of Ash Wednesday in preparing for the 40-day journey of spiritual renewal leading up to Easter Sunday.
He emphasised the three pillars of Lent, highlighted in the day’s Gospel:
- Almsgiving
- Prayer
- Fasting
These practices, he noted, help the faithful overcome sinful tendencies and cultivate spiritual discipline, fostering a deeper relationship with God.
Symbolism and tradition of Ash Wednesday
Ash Wednesday serves as a universal call to repentance for Christians, reminding them of their mortality and the need for spiritual renewal. The ashes used in the ceremony, traditionally made by burning the palms from the previous year’s Palm Sunday, are imposed on the foreheads of the faithful with the solemn words:
- “Remember you are dust, and to dust you shall return.”
or - “Repent and believe in the Gospel.”
This ancient practice serves as a visible sign of penance, encouraging the faithful to embark on a journey of reflection, prayer, and self-denial.
Observance of fasting and abstinence
The season of Lent, which spans 40 days, mirrors the time Jesus spent in the wilderness fasting and praying. It calls Christians to self-discipline, repentance, and acts of charity, reflecting Christ’s sacrifice and ultimate redemption of humanity.
Roman Catholics aged 14 and older are required to abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday, while those aged 18 to 59 are also required to observe a fast, typically limiting themselves to one full meal and two smaller meals. This small sacrifice is offered as an act of solidarity with Christ’s suffering.
Devotion and participation
The solemnity of the occasion at Infant Jesus Shrine saw devotees participating with deep devotion, marking the start of a season of introspection, prayer, and charitable works. The Shrine’s Lenten services and devotions are expected to draw faithful throughout the season, as they prepare their hearts for the celebration of Easter.
