How to Explain Ash Wednesday Traditions and History

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Lenten season.

The observance of Ash Wednesday is important to many Christians. Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, a liturgical season that recalls the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Ash Wednesday, Good Friday and all the Fridays of Lent are reserved for fasting, abstinence and prayer. Some Christian denominations are unfamiliar with the significance of Ash Wednesday and the religious practices of the Lenten season. Ash Wednesday's traditions are rooted in Scripture as well as in ancient Jewish cultural tradition.

Instructions

1. Read biblical passages that refer to using ashes as a symbol of sorrow and penance for sin. For example, Tamar from the second book of Samuel tore her clothing and put ashes on her head while she wept for others to see. The book of Matthew also mentions the use of ashes as a symbol of repentance.

2. Study the historical significance of Ash Wednesday. For example, early Christians in Rome covered themselves with ashes and wore tattered rags as a symbol of their mourning for their sins. Early Christians practiced Ash Wednesday to mark the beginning of Lent.

3. Allow someone who is unfamiliar with Ash Wednesday to ask you questions. Give them the biblical and historical examples that you have researched.

4. Describe what happens in an Ash Wednesday service. Explain how the ashes are disbursed to the church goers. Describe how the ashes are smudged on the forehead in the shape of a cross to symbolize atonement for sin through Christ's sacrifice.

5. Invite people who are unfamiliar with Lenten traditions to an Ash Wednesday service. This will allow for them to witness the service for themselves and give opportunity for further dialogue.

Tips & Warnings

• If you don't have the answer to a question, offer to follow up later after more research.

• Be polite and courteous with those for whom this topic is unfamiliar.

• Respect the religious beliefs of others.

References

• Holy Bible: King James Version (1976). Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers
• Vatican; General Audience; The Holy See -- Pope Benedict XVI; 2010
• American Catholic: The Tradition Behind Ash Wednesday
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Ash Wednesday
• University of Notre Dame Office of Campus Ministry: Ash Wednesday

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish