Ancient Words Ever True

For nearly a thousand years, these words have been spoken to young and old alike as the sign of the cross is traced on their foreheads with ashes—the Imposition of Ashes, as it has come to be known*. As we mark Ash Wednesday 2014, and as we prepare our hearts for the season, Lent, let us meditate on the theme of the season and draw strength for our “race” to Heaven. Traditionally, this season of Lent provided a time in which converts to the Christian faith were prepared for Holy Baptism. It was also a time when those who, because of notorious sins, had been separated from the body of the faithful were reconciled by penitence and forgiveness, and restored to the fellowship of the Church. Thereby, the whole congregation was put in mind of the message of pardon and absolution set forth in the Gospel of our Saviour, and of the need which all Christians continually have to renew their repentance and faith. The Imposition of Ashes puts forward to us two (2) powerful messages none of whi...