Ash Wednesday

Year of Saint Joseph

In other years: The Seven Holy Founders of the Servite Order (early 13th century-14th century)

Readings of the Day

RB: Ch 14 The Celebration of Vigils on the Anniversaries of Saints

Mass: Joel 2:12-18; Resp Ps 51; 2 Cor 5:20-6:2; Mt 6:1-6, 16-18

O Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall proclaim your praise.

WE ARE AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST.

(2 Cor 5:20)

Welcome to Ash Wednesday. For consideration during these days leading to the First Sunday of Lent, here is wisdom sent last year from Archbishop Arthur Roche, Secretary of the Congregation for Divine Worship and Discipline of the Sacraments.

Fast from judging others; feast on the Christ indwelling in them.

Fast from emphasis on differences; feast on the unity of life.

Fast from apparent darkness; feast on the reality of light.

Fast from words that pollute; feast on phrases that purify.

Fast from discontent; feast on gratitude.

Fast from anger; feast on patience.

Fast from pessimism; feast on optimism.

Fast from worry; feast on trust.

Fast from compliance; feast on appreciation.

Fast from negatives; feast on affirmatives.

Fast from unrelenting pressures; feast on unceasing prayer.

Fast from hostility; feast on nonviolence.

Fast from self-concern; feast on compassion for others.

Fast from personal anxiety; feast on eternal truth.

Fast from discouragement; feast on hope.

Fast from facts that depress; feast on truths that uplift.

Fast from lethargy; feast on enthusiasm.

Fast from suspicion; feast on truth.

Fast from thoughts that weaken; feast on promises that inspire.

Fast from idle gossip; feast on purposeful silence.

Gentle God, during this season of fasting and feast,

gift us with your presence, so we can be a gift to others in carrying out your work.

Amen.

HEART OF JESUS, GENEROUS TO ALL WHO TURN TO YOU,

HAVE MERCY ON US.

SAINT JOSEPH, PATTERN OF PATIENCE,

THE SEVEN HOLY FOUNDERS OF THE SERVITE ORDER,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: In contrast to yesterday's winter weather in Indianapolis, Indiana, here we find spring-like weather in Eureka, California. One friend commented: "Snow and sunshine all in one day of God's creation. Beautiful!" God is praised. 

© Gertrude Feick 2021