The ​ Season of Lent​ begins with ​ Ash Wednesday​ on February 17, 2021.

As with many things in these times, Ash Wednesday will appear differently this year. ​The Vatican Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments details how to distribute ashes.​ After reciting the Roman Missal formula: “​ Repent, and believe in the Gospel​” or “​ Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return​,” the priest “cleanses his hands, puts on a face mask, and sprinkles the ashes on each person’s head “without saying anything.”

This year, our parish will offer three Ash Wednesday services on February 17th:
9AM at Stella Maris Church
12PM at Stella Maris Church
6PM at Saint Joseph’s Church

The Season of Lent is a 40 day period of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving that begins on Ash Wednesday and ends at sundown on Holy Thursday ( see the ​Norms for Lenten Observance​).

Lent is a period of preparation to celebrate the Lord's Resurrection at
Easter. Lent is a time when our youth are preparing for first Holy Communion and the Sacrament of Confirmation, with the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Let us all renew our Baptismal commitment through this period of Lent, making opportunities for the Sacrament of Reconciliation prior to Mass and during Holy Hours. Take time with your family to learn more about the Lenten Season and our Easter Faith through our ​ parish subscription​ to Formed.org

The Canadian Catholic Bishops are also offering Journey through Lent, a series of reflections on the Gospel readings of each Sunday in Lent.

Image: Ash Wednesday by Julian Fałat