Ashes at Sunrise, February 17

submitted by St. Mary Catholic Church

Ash Wednesday, the traditional beginning of the Lenten season, will be next week, February 17. And with covid safety procedures in place, St. Mary Catholic Church in the Village, across from the Gazebo, will be welcoming all to the Holy Mass and to receive the sign of ashes.

There will be a special 7:00 am “Sunrise Mass” to accommodate those whose work and school schedules would otherwise not permit them to begin this prayerful and holy season with this ancient sign. There also will be the usual Masses at 8:30 am and 7:00 pm.

This year we will see an option that is somewhat unusual in the United States but typical in Italy, Poland and other European countries. That is, the ashes are sprinkled on the penitent’s head rather than imposed on the forehead. This is especially welcome by those with covid concerns that must be rigorously observed.

As always, with the sign of ashes the priest intones these somber words: “Remember that you are dust and to dust you shall return,” or, “Turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel.”

The quiet, penitential 40 days of Lent prepare hearts for the wonder of Easter and the beauty and joy it promises. Take time on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 17 – at sunrise / 7:00 am or at either of the other two Masses at St. Mary’s that day: 8:30 am or 7:00 pm. Let the sign of ashes remind you to begin a thoughtful and prayerful 40 days. St. Mary Church is located at 210 W. Main Street in the Village of Manchester, just two blocks west of the downtown. If you have any questions, please call Fr. Bosco or the Parish office at 734-428-8811.

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by Sara Swanson

Sara Swanson is an editor, writer and founder of the Manchester Mirror.