Entering Lent: What is Ash Wednesday?

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, our 40-day journey with Jesus through the desert, as a preparation for his death and resurrection. If we are to be at one with God, with creation, and with each other, we need to face who we are, make our confession and open ourselves to the supportive power of God and of our faith community in the Lenten journey to new life. Ash Wednesday then, is a day of confession. We are invited to mark our Lenten journey with prayer, self-discipline and deeds of charity.

Dean Anne celebrating the Eucharist at the Nave altar, gifted by the Auckland Catholic community.

Observed with the imposition of ashes usually on the head, Ash Wednesday serves as a powerful reminder of human mortality and the need for reconciliation with God. The ashes, often accompanied by the words ‘Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return,’ or ‘Turn away from, sin and be faithful to the Gospel,’ symbolise humility, repentance, and the transient nature of earthly life. This day invites Christians to reflect on their relationship with God, turn away from sin, and embark on their own journey of renewal.

At Holy Trinity Cathedral, we celebrate Ash Wednesday with Eucharist and Imposition of Ashes at 12.15pm in the Bishop Selwyn Chapel and then at 7.30pm an Ecumenical Liturgy and Imposition of Ashes in the Nave when we will be joined by the Roman Catholic community from St Patricks Cathedral. At these services, we will give thanks for who we are, honour our traditions and pray for Christian unity, reconciliation among the peoples and healing in the world.

All are welcome to partake in these deeply meaningful and solemn services.

The Very Reverend Anne Mills

Dean