With a snowstorm expected to affect travel in the Twin Cities, Archbishop Bernard Hebda offered clergy and the Catholic faithful the option of distribution of ashes Thursday through Sunday immediately following Ash Wednesday, as well.
Ash Wednesday falls on Feb. 22 and marks the start of Lent. Ash Wednesday is not a holy day of obligation, yet it is considered by many to be an important introduction to the Lenten season.
Archbishop Hebda said the additional options for distribution of ashes can take place so long as the ashes are blessed on Ash Wednesday and the distribution occurs outside of Mass. This ritual is found in the Book of Blessings, no. 1656.
The National Weather Service in the Twin Cities is forecasting snowfall totals of up to 20 inches in the metro area by week’s end. Meanwhile, a blizzard warning went into effect for several counties in western and central Minnesota.
Catholics 14 and older are bound to abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday. Catholics who are 18-59 are bound to fast on Ash Wednesday. For those fasting, only one full meatless meal is allowed. Two other meatless meals may be taken, but together they should not equal another full meal. Eating between meals is not permitted. If health or ability to work would be seriously affected, the regulation does not apply.
