Ash Wednesday marks the start of Lent, and churches across San Antonio are welcoming parishioners for services, ashes and reflection.
SAN ANTONIO — After a busy Tuesday filled with celebration, many Catholic and other religious communities across San Antonio are shifting their focus to prayer, reflection and renewal.
Wednesday marks Ash Wednesday, the start of the six-week season of Lent, leading up to Easter. Parishioners attend Mass and receive ashes on their foreheads as a symbol of faith and repentance.
At St. Pius X Catholic Church, the day is one of the busiest of the year.
Normally, the church holds one weekday Mass at 8:15 a.m., but Father Pat O’Brien said the parish expanded its schedule to four services to accommodate the large number of worshippers expected.
The first Mass began at 6:30 a.m., drawing in early risers, including seniors and those heading to work. Additional services are scheduled for 12:10 p.m., 4 p.m., and 6:30 p.m.
Father O’Brien said Ash Wednesday serves as a powerful reminder of human humility.
“Ash Wednesday is a sign of faith… to remember we are made from ashes, and to ashes we will return,” he said.
The season of Lent encourages followers to give up material distractions, practice sacrifice and deepen their spiritual lives.
O’Brien said his hope for San Antonio this year is that faith can help bring people together during divisive times.
“I truly believe it’s our faith that will overcome all the political divisions that are just seemingly ripping apart our country and even our city at times,” O’Brien said. “So we can focus on what’s really important.”
Following Ash Wednesday, St. Pius X will continue its Lenten traditions with a fish fry on Friday at 4 p.m., featuring fish, shrimp and hushpuppies, with both indoor and outdoor seating available.