The Church marks the beginning of the season of Lent on Ash Wednesday when ashes from last year’s palm crosses are marked on our foreheads to remind us of our mortality. The mark however is in the form of a cross, to also remind us that it is through Our Lord’s Cross and Passion that we will share with him the glory of his Resurrection and the bright promise of eternal life.

Ash Wednesday is a day of abstinence (no meat) for everyone who is fourteen years old or over and a day of fasting for those who are between 18 and 59 years old. The requirement to Fast does not apply to those with a medical condition.

Mass will be celebrated here in Patrickswell-Ballybrown Parish on Ash Wednesday at the following times and will include the Blessing and Distribution of Ashes:-