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Ash Wednesday: A day of fasting and repentance that reminds us that we are disciples about to begin the journey with Jesus that ends in the cross (Lk. 9:51). Ash Wednesday begins the observance of Lent.

Lent: A time for reflection on the suffering and death of Jesus. Lent also emphasizes “death to self” so that, like Jesus, we prepare ourselves to obey God no matter what sacrifice it involves. Lenten observance calls for people to fast as a way of affirming this attitude of obedience (Lk. 5:35; 1 Cor. 9:27; 2 Tim. 2:4; Heb. 11:1-3).The Lenten season, a forty-day period starting on Ash Wednesday and ending on Saturday of Holy Week (Holy Saturday), calls us to reflect on Jesus’ suffering, crucifixion, and death. Following our Lord, let us prepare ourselves on the way of the Cross for full obedience to God.