The ash on Ash Wednesday

[Cody]

To begin the season of Lent the priest puts ashes on our forehead and makes the sign of the cross. But I was wondering how does that practice relate to what Jesus says about fasting in Matthew’s Gospel:
“But when you fast, put scent on your head and wash your face…” (Matt 6:17).

Thanks,

Cody

 

[Erich]

The ashes are an ancient custom more tied to penitence than fasting (see newadvent.org/cathen/01775b.htm and related links).

 

[BayCityRickL]

There’s absolutely no conflict. I wash my face and put on scent and then get my ashes.

I’ve never seen this anyplace else but in Chicago at St. Peter’s (downtown) church. On Ash Wednesday, there were so many people lined up for ashes, that they trailed out of two doors and onto the street. I’m glad they were there, but like anything else, it would be marvelous if so many people were there every day.