EVENT DETAILS:
Ash Wednesday (Christian)
Ash Wednesday day marks the start of Lent, 40 days of fasting and prayer for Christians before Easter when they are ready to receive or reaffirm their baptism. For some Christians, Lent is a time to think about life and death, as well as reflect on life’s choices and possible life directions. It is also a time of goodwill for many people. There are also those who chose this time of the year to donate to charities or take part in charity events to get close to God.
Many churches in Canada hold special Ash Wednesday services for their congregations. It is a time when people who seek penitence for their wrongdoings are marked with the sign of the cross, from blessed ashes, on their forehead. This symbolic occasion reminds people of their mortality and sorrow for sins, as well as the will for change and the hope of forgiveness.