The Roman Catholic Church requires its followers to practice abstinence from meat and fasting on Ash Wednesday.

18 February 2026 is Ash Wednesday, which traditionally starts the season of Lent. This is the story …

“Ash Wednesday is a way of looking ahead to Easter,” Father Morrill said. “And here in the Northern Hemisphere, that also means looking ahead to spring.” Ashes are made from the palms blessed on Palm Sunday of the previous year, and the tradition of placing them on penitents dates to the 11th century.

Despite regional traditions and differences in receiving ashes, the spiritual focus of the Lenten season does not change.

ROCHESTER, Minn. (KTTC) – In Christianity, Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Lenten season, coming on the heels of a tumultuous few months for many in the area.

For those who are working or otherwise unable to receive ashes at Mass on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 18, Fr. Egren Gomez, pastor of Holy Cross Catholic Church,

Holy Trinity Catholic Church keeps a 102-year-old tradition alive with Fasnacht Day! Over 200 volunteers unite to create these delicious treats.

An Ash Wednesday Drive-Thru will return to Holy Cross Catholic Church in Santa Barbara. Fr. Egren Gomez and others will offer