Ash Wednesday
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent.
Today we welcomed Fr. Ged into school to celebrate a Service of Ashes for Ash Wednesday. He distributed ashes to those who wished to receive them. Today begins the season of Lent where Christians try to fast, pray and give more. On Ash Wednesday, Christians are marked on the forehead with a cross of ashes. This is a sign of saying sorry to God for any wrongdoing.
During Lent, we remember when Jesus went into the desert to fast and pray before beginning his work for God. Jesus was tempted several times by Satan, but was able to resist. Lent allows Christians to remember Jesus's fasting in the desert. It is a time of giving things up and a test of self-discipline.
This year we share this special time with some of our families who are observing Ramadan.
Most Muslims fast between dawn and sunset. Fasting allows Muslims to devote themselves to their faith. It is thought to teach self-discipline and reminds them of the suffering of the poor. However, children, pregnant women, elderly people and those who are ill or travelling don't have to fast. During Ramadan, it is common to have one meal (known as the suhoor), just before dawn and another (known as the iftar), directly after sunset.