Ash Wednesday

Wednesday, February 22nd was Ash Wednesday. The TY students who are working towards receiving the Pope John Paul Award attended Ash Wednesday Mass , and then distributed ashes to students ,and staff here in Sacred Heart

Saoirse,Sinead Ciara, Lauren, Caoimhe and Sinead.

In 2023, like in every year, Ash Wednesday is the first day of the liturgical season of Lent. It always falls six and half weeks before Easter, beginning the Lenten season of preparation for Christ’s Resurrection on Easter Sunday.

Ash Wednesday dates back to the 11th century. Yet, the tradition of receiving ashes has even earlier roots — to the ancient Hebrew custom of clothing oneself in sackcloth and dusting oneself with ashes as a sign of penance.

Lent can be more than a time of Fasting; it can be a Season of Feasting.

We can choose this Lent, to fast from certain things and to feast on others. It is a season in which we can:

Fast from emphasis on differences; Feast on the unity of  life

Fast from discontent; Feast on gratitude

Fast from pessimism; Feast on optimism

Fast from complaining; Feast on appreciation

Fast from negatives; Feast on affirmatives

Fast from bitterness; Feast on forgiveness

Fast from self-concern; Feast on compassion for others

Fast from discouragements; Feast on hope

Fast from facts that depress; Feast on words  that encourage and  uplift

Fast from lethargy; Feast on enthusiasm

Fast from sadness; Feast on Joy and Happiness