On Wednesday, February 17, 2021, Ash Wednesday, we will be following a revised protocol for the imposition of Blessed Ashes as we begin the Holy Season of Lent.

Ashes will be distributed during Mass or at a Scripture Service, just after the homily. The celebrant with bless the ashes, sprinkling them with Holy Water. He will then address the congregation as a whole in one of the two approved forms:
 

Repent and Believe in the Gospel.
or
Remember that you are dust
and unto dust you will return.

This invocation will NOT be repeated for each individual receiving ashes.

As individuals approach to receive the ashes, they will not be signed on the forehead with a cross. Rather, they are asked to bow their heads, and ashes will be sprinkled on the tops of their heads. There will be no physical contact between the minister and the recipient. The recipient is free to leave after receiving the sprinkled ashes.

Please note: While imposition of ashes with the sign of the cross on the forehead has been customary in the United States of America on Ash Wednesday, in many other parts of the world, the tradition of sprinkling dry ashes on top of the head, rooted in scriptural tradition, is, in fact, the more common practice. This is how the Holy Father always receives his ashes on Ash Wednesday.

We thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Ash Wednesday – February 17, 2021
Distribution of Ashes at Services in the Church: 7 AM, 4 PM, 7:30 PM
Mass 8:00 AM, 9:00 AM and 12:10 PM (Ashes will be distributed during these Masses).