Pics: Stanly Bantwal
M'lore, Mar 9: Ash Wednesday was observed at Infant Jesus Shrine on Wednesday March 9.
The faithful gathered in large number early in the morning at 6.00 am to participate in the Holy Eucharist. Fr George Santhumayor in the homily highlighted the need of renewal in the life of a believer. Later the Ash was blessed and was put on the forehead of the believers as they came in procession in a true spirit of repentance.
Christians all over the world mark this day as Ash Wednesday. It is the first day, or the start of the season of Lent, which begins 40 days prior to Easter.
Lent is a time when many Christians prepare for Easter by observing a period of fasting, prayer, almsgiving repentance, moderation and spiritual discipline. During Ash Wednesday Liturgy, the Priest blesses the ash and will lightly rub the sign of the cross with ashes onto the foreheads of Bleiever. Its a sign of repentece.