![]() The ashes used are typically gathered after the blessed palm fronds (which are a symbol of victory, triumph, peace and eternal life) from the previous year's Palm Sunday service have been burned on Shrove Tuesday.Īsh Wednesday falls on the day after Shrove Tuesday (also known as Fat Tuesday and Pancake Day), the last day of feasting and indulging in rich foods that one might give up as a sacrifice for the upcoming 40 days of the Lenten season. Special church services are held for this, often in the evening of Ash Wednesday. The words "Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return" or similar are said during the ceremony. ![]() It derives its name from the practice of ceremonially making an ashen cross on the foreheads or placing ashes on the heads of adherents as a symbol of mourning and repentance to God. It can occur as early as February 4 or as late as March 10. It falls on a different date each year because it is determined by the date of Easter Sunday. It is the first day of the Lenten season (see Lent), a time of fasting and abstinence, penitence and prayer for observant Christians. ![]() Ashes are sprinkled on the top of the head in this 1881 Polish painting.Īsh Wednesday is a Christian religious holiday that is observed every year 46 days before Easter. ![]()
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