The determination of certain days as obligatory days of penance should not be understood as limiting the occasions for Christian penance.This year, because of pandemic conditions, all parishes will distribute ashes by sprinkling them on the head of recipients. Two smaller meals are permitted if necessary to maintain strength according to each one’s needs, but eating solid foods between meals is not permitted.Ībstinence from meat is to be observed by all Catholics 14 years or older on Ash Wednesday, Good Friday and on all Fridays of Lent. Those who are bound to fast may take only one full meal. ► The guidelines for Catholics on fasting and abstinence are as follows: Fasting is to be observed on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday by all Catholics who are 18 years of age but not yet 59. Please remember the importance of fasting and abstinence on Ash Wednesday and a strong spirit of prayer, fasting and charity throughout Lent. Lenten guidelines on fasting and abstinence

A receptacle for used swabs/balls is to be located at each station where ashes are distributed. If a cotton swab or cotton ball is used, it is to be disposed of after each person and a new swab or ball used. Whichever option is chosen, those imposing ashes are to wear a mask during the distribution of ashes and sanitize their hands afterwards. ► Using a cotton ball to place ashes on the forehead ► Using a cotton swab (Q-tip) to place ashes on the forehead ►Sprinkling a small pinch of dry ashes on the top of the head

there are only three options for the imposition of ashes that will be used in the Archdiocese of New Orleans for 2021: However, in the United States, the custom has developed where ashes are placed on the forehead in the shape of a cross.ĭue to concerns about the spread of COVID-19, modifications must be made to our usual method of imposition of ashes.Īfter consultation with medical leaders. In most countries, the practice of placing or sprinkling a small pinch of palm ashes on the top of the head on Ash Wednesday remains common practice.

As a result of that practice, this day became known as Ash Wednesday. ln the year 1091, Pope Urban ll decreed that priests were to sprinkle ashes on the heads of all the faithful on the first day of Lent. In the early Church, the priest would sprinkle ashes on the heads of those confessing their sins. 17), we must adjust our liturgical rites because of the pandemic.Īshes have been used as a sign of repentance from Old Testament times to today. Archbishop Gregory Aymond has issued the following guidelines for the distribution of ashes on Ash Wednesday:Īs we look ahead to Ash Wednesday (Feb.

Imposition of ashes 2021