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On Ash Wednesday, February 25, 2009, we observe the distribution of ashes. On this day we gather in the name of Jesus to name our sin and claim our desire for repentance. Instead of cosmetic make-up that tends to mask the face, we wear ashes to reflect our need to remove the masks that conceal our true self. On Ash Wednesday, Christians have a cross in ashes tattooed upon their foreheads.

It is a kind of sacred body art that outwardly reflects our inner call to embrace the truth of our lives. During games, fans paint their bodies with the color of their home team. Through the ritual of ashes the Christian is marked with the color of the earth with the reminder: "Remember, you are dust and unto dust you shall return." Or, as another formula for the rite invites, "Turn away from sin and believe the good news." The ritual of ashes helps the human heart create a safe place where it can see and hear, touch, taste and smell the presence of God.

The ritual of receiving ashes signifies our desire to be in right relationship with God, with one another, with all people of the earth and all of creation. Though most of us find change difficult, this ritual reflects our desire to change from bad habits of sin and selfishness to embrace new habits of holiness. When we smudge our faces with ashes, the scripture exhorts us to "put on a happy face" as we name and claim our desire to live in right relationship with God and with one another. (cf. Matthew 6:1-6,16-18)

The celebration of receiving ashes takes place either during Mass or a Liturgy of the Word.

Either way, the distribution of ashes is preceded by readings from the Sacred Scriptures and is followed by prayers of intercession for the needs of the church and world. Persons planning to receive ashes on Ash Wednesday will find a schedule of times in the local church bulletins. Bishop Ricardo Ramírez will celebrate Mass at Immaculate Heart of Mary Cathedral in Las Cruces on Ash Wednesday, 7 p.m. Planning ahead allows everyone to participate in the entire ritual prayer.

-Adapted from an article by Rev. Joe Nassal, CPPS