Published: 02/20/2023
For Ash Wednesday, February 22, Holy Mass with the Blessing and Distribution of Ashes will take place in Mary, Seat of Wisdom Chapel.
A message from Gannon University Chaplain Fr. Michael Kesicki as we approach the season of Lent:
The season of Lent begins this year on Ash Wednesday, February 22, 2023, and concludes when the Paschal Triduum of the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of the Lord begins at the start of the Evening Mass of the Lord's Supper on Holy Thursday, April 6, 2023.
The following practices and regulations are promulgated by Bishop Persico and binding for all Latin Rite Catholics in the Diocese of Erie for Lent and the Paschal Triduum, 2023. Eastern Rite Catholics who may be attending Latin Rite parishes have their own proper regulations and should consult their own eparchy or parish.
Traditional Lenten practices of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, and other forms of self-denial, are recommended most warmly by the Church. Daily Mass is particularly encouraged.
Ash Wednesday, all Fridays in Lent, and Good Friday are days of abstinence from eating meat for those 14 years of age and older.
In 2023, St. Patrick's Day (March 17 – Principal Patronal Feast Day of the Diocese of Erie) falls on a Friday in Lent. In recognition of the importance of this day for the faithful, Bishop Persico has dispensed all Latin Catholics from the requirement of abstinence from eating meat on March 17, 2023, within the territory of the Diocese of Erie.
Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are also days of fasting for those ages 18 to 58 inclusive. On these days, those bound by the law of fasting may take one full meal. Two smaller meals, sufficient to maintain strength according to one's needs, are also permitted. Eating between meals is not permitted, but liquids including milk and fruit juices are allowed. When health or work is seriously affected, the law does not oblige.
For Ash Wednesday, February 22, Holy Mass with the Blessing and Distribution of Ashes will take place in Mary, Seat of Wisdom Chapel. Ash Wednesday Mass times:
- 8 am
- 11:15 am
- 12:20 pm
- 4:35 pm
- 9 pm
Prince of Peace Parish in Ruskin, FL is offering the following opportunities to receive blessed ashes. Holy Mass at:
Ashes will be distributed between 5 pm – 6 pm under the covered entrance outside the church.
As we embark on the pilgrimage of Lent, let us be encouraged by the words of Psalm 51 which the Church prays: "A clean heart create for me, O God, and a steadfast spirit renew within me."
In faith and prayer,
Fr. Michael Kesicki