BACOLOD CITY, Philippines – Ash Wednesday is considered as a popular and important holy day in the liturgical calendar.
It opens the Lenten Season, and takes place 46 days before Easter Sunday.
It is observed by Catholics, every year.
Such practice includes a priest putting the sign of the cross on the forehead of a person using ash, and usually worn by many until the evening.
The ash is made using palms blessed on Palm Sunday of the previous year, and are “christened” with Holy Water.
The ash is believed to be a symbol of “dust” that was used by “God” to create man.
It is also believed to be a visible symbol of penance, as Lent is considered as a season of penance, reflection, and fasting.
With such practice, the church aims to develop the spirit of humility and sacrifice.
