One thing we know for sure about spring is that April showers will bring May flowers. Though there are some important questions, like when exactly those flowers will bloom (we're looking at you, Mr. Groundhog) and when Easter and other important dates during Lent will fall. With all the festive family gatherings, Easter egg hunts, and Sunday feasts, each household finds its own way to commemorate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ during the beloved holiday of Easter.
But before the grand celebration, it's crucial to acknowledge another significant date: Ash Wednesday. This sacred Wednesday marks the initiation of Lent and occurs 46 days before Easter Sunday. Since the date varies each year, it's essential to be aware of its exact occurrence so you can commemorate when the time comes. So, when does Ash Wednesday fall this year? Here's what you need to know about the first day of Lent in 2025. Plus, how Christians spend the observance and why it's so special.
What Is the Purpose of Ash Wednesday?
Ash Wednesday is the first day of Lent. In many Western religions like Roman Catholicism, Lent is a 40-day period of reflection and prayer leading up to Easter Sunday. It includes a 40-day fast with Sundays excluded (because they're already considered feast days). This day is for repentance of sins and reconciliation with God, as His followers are reminded of their human mortality and God's mercy towards them.
When Is Ash Wednesday in 2025?
The commemoration of Ash Wednesday, or the start of Lent, also marks the beginning of Easter preparations as Christians ready for the resurrection of Christ. It always falls six and half weeks before Easter. This year, Ash Wednesday falls on March 5, 2025.
Why Is It Called Ash Wednesday?
Early Christians would begin a period of public penance for their sins on the first day of Lent. The practice originated with the ancient Jewish custom of penance and fasting, and writings from the 2nd-century church refer to ashes as a sign of penance and grief for sins committed. Penitents would wear ashes, symbolizing the dust from which God created humankind. This belief is represented in many Biblical passages such as Genesis 2:7, Genesis 3:19, Ecclesiastes 3:20. Ashes also remind Christians that God is merciful to those who ask forgiveness.
How Do Christians Commemorate Ash Wednesday?
Nowadays, Christians attend a religious service on Ash Wednesday to receive ashes on the forehead. The pastor applies the ashes, often in the sign of the cross, and usually says, "Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return." The ashes often are made from the palm branches of the previous year's Palm Sunday celebration and typically are worn all day as a reminder of the importance and solemnity of the occasion. Although it was once observed primarily by Catholics, many other faiths such as Lutherans and Anglicans observe Ash Wednesday as well.
Why Does the Date for Ash Wednesday Change Every Year?
Unlike fixed holidays like Christmas, Ash Wednesday's date varies annually due to the changing date of Easter. Easter is a movable religious feast observed on the first Sunday following the first full moon after the spring equinox. Consequently, Easter consistently occurs between March 22 and April 25. According to Christian tradition, Lent commences 46 days before Easter Sunday. To determine the beginning of Lent, which starts with Ash Wednesday, we count back six weeks from Easter Sunday.
Arricca Elin SanSone is a writer, editor, and content creator who specializes in lifestyle and gardening. With a background in health reporting, she applies these same research skills when writing about the science of growing things. She trials new plants in her expansive garden, and her houseplant collection consists of 60+ varieties. Arricca has written thousands of articles for publications such as Country Living, House Beautiful, Good Housekeeping, Prevention, VERANDA, Southern Living, and more. She’s happiest when digging in the dirt, baking, or spending time with the people and dogs she loves.
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