In the year 1091 Pope Urban II recommended this practice to both clergy and laity. Tertullian, saints Cyprian, Ambrose, Jerome and Augustine, and many other Church Fathers make frequent reference to this practice, especially in relationship with the practice of beginning a period of public penance for grave sins.Īpart from the relatively few public penitents, many other devout Christians confessed at the beginning of Lent so as to be able to receive daily Communion during this season, and they asked to be covered with ashes as a sign of humility after having received absolution. Historically, the use of ashes as a sign of penance is already found in the Old Testament, and even Jesus speaks of the necessity of some sinners to do penance in sackcloth and ashes (Matthew 11:21). I think it is worthwhile repeating some things, even though we have addressed the issue on other occasions. M.F., Oxford, EnglandĪ: These and similar questions are often asked at this time of year leading up to Lent. Q2: Is there a correct way of imposing the ashes? I note that in Rome the ashes are sprinkled on top of people's heads, but in other parts of the world the ash is marked on the foreheads. Is this also proper? - D.O., Mombasa, Kenya Is this permitted? Further, in addition to the priest and nuns, a lay faithful from the congregation came forward and assisted with administering the ashes/liquid. At one such Mass, I noticed that what was placed on everybody was a liquid mixture of ashes and water. Q1: During Ash Wednesday Masses, ashes are placed on the head of all those present who come forward for it. Answered by Legionary of Christ Father Edward McNamara, professor of liturgy and dean of theology at the Regina Apostolorum university.

Consistency of ashes for imposition