What does this Christian feast mean?

The day after Mardi Gras takes place the Ash Wednesdaywhich falls this year on Wednesday, March 5, 2025. In the Christian religion, this celebration marks the First day of Lenta 40 -day period during which the faithful fast and respect certain restrictions to the Easter party. But what exactly is we celebrated on Wednesday ash Wednesday? Here are 7 things to know about this atypical day and on Lent.

What is the date of ash Wednesday in 2025?

Ashes Wednesday takes place this year on March 5, 2025. Its date is still set in the aftermath of Mardi Gras.

What is Ash Wednesday?

Originally, the name “Wednesday of ashes” refers to a tradition which would have been implemented by Pope Grégoire Iaround the year 591. When the faithful go to the church on the day of the ash Wednesday, the ashes of the branches of last year (burned during Lent, a week before Easter) are used during the mass of the ashes and affixed by the priest on the fronts of the faithful in the form of a cross, proof that they recognize their faults committed before God.

What symbolizes ash Wednesday for believers?

For Christian believers, ash Wednesday symbolizes the first day of the “purification” of the body and the mind during the Lent period. During this day, Christians start their fasting of Lent, they pray and they show penance, admitting their faults with the desire to no longer redo them.

When can we eat ash Wednesday?

During the ash Wednesday, the faithful must do without a meal during the day, usually the midday meal, and refrain from eating meat, eggs and dairy products. Practitioners can therefore eat in the morning and evening for dinner, respecting a frugal diet, With simple foods (rice, bread, etc.) and not abundant quantities.