Reflection

"Challenging... Inspiring...Faith Building!"

Saints Mary and Joseph Cathedral Parish

Weekend Mass Times:

Saturday Vigil - 6pm

Sunday - 8am, 10 am and 5.30 pm

Please follow the social distancing directions at the Cathedral.

REFLECTION

Ash Wednesday takes it's name from the Jewish practice of doing penance wearing 'sackcloth and ashes'. The Church asks us to observe Ash Wednesday and Good Friday as days of full fast and abstinence. Fasting is prescribes to reinforce our penitential prayer during the Lenten season.

The use of ashes signifies the Church giving us:

1 - a firm conviction that we are mortal beings, with bodies that will become dust when buried and ashes o cremated,

2 - a strong warning that repentance of sins, reconciliation with God, asking His pardon and forgiveness, completion of penance are the only ways to eternal life,

3 - a loving invitation to know and acknowledge our sins and return to God's love and forgiveness with true repentance and a renewal of our life, Just as the prodigal son did.

PRAYER

Merciful God,

Through your prophet Joel, you reminded us of the true meaning of penitence.

As the holy season of Lent begins, turn my heart towards you.

Let the mark of the ashes remind me throughout the season of this call to conversion.

May my repentance be truthful and sincere.

May my prayer be open to your guidance and grace.

May my almsgiving be generous and without strings or restrictions.

In the name of your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, I pray.

Amen