Catholics around the world and in Goa mark the commencement of the Lenten season today with the observance of Ash Wednesday. Lasting for 40 days until Easter Sunday, Lent is a period of spiritual reflection, repentance, and preparation for the death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ.
During Ash Wednesday Mass, priests administer ashes on the foreheads of the faithful as a reminder of human mortality and the need for repentance. With the words, "Remember, you are dust and unto dust you will return," spoken during the application of ashes, Catholics are called to reflect on their mortality and turn towards a path of repentance and renewal.
Fr. Walter D’Sa, parish priest of Immaculate Conception Church in Panaji, emphasised the significance of Ash Wednesday and the Lenten season, stating, "Lent began with Ash Wednesday, the practice of applying ash in the form of a cross on the forehead which symbolises God's blessings. Lent is observed by praying, fasting, abstaining, and following the word of God. Lent is a good time to get closer to God."
Throughout Lent, Catholics are encouraged to embrace the Three Pillars of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving as means of deepening their spiritual connection and living in accordance with God's will. This period is an opportunity for believers to engage in self-reflection, seek forgiveness for past wrongdoings, and strive for personal growth and spiritual renewal.
