Happy Ash Wednesday! For some, Ash Wednesday is not happy, Lent is not happy. This is contrary to what is mentioned in the canticle Antiphon for the Divine Office this morning.

“When you fast, do not put on a gloomy face like the hypocrites.” (Matthew 6:16)

So, today, as Lent begins, while the season isn’t one known for rejoicing, it is one for fasting, prayer, and almsgiving, which will bring us closer to Christ, the ultimate reward.

Don’t forget as well that Ash Wednesday is a day of fasting and abstinence. For those between 18 and 59 years of age, you are allowed only one meal to eat plus two smaller meals that combined are smaller than the one meal.  You may drink water, juice, milk between meals, but be mindful of your drink as well.

For those 14 and above, no meat is allowed, just like on Fridays.