COVID prompts changes for Ash Wednesday

Archbishop Gregory Aymond has issued the following guidelines for the distribution of ashes on Ash Wednesday:

As we look ahead to Ash Wednesday (Feb. 17), we must adjust our liturgical rites because of the pandemic. 

Distribution of Ashes, Feb. 17
Ashes have been used as a sign of repentance from Old Testament times to today. In the early Church, the priest would sprinkle ashes on the heads of those confessing their sins. ln the year 1091, Pope Urban ll decreed that priests were to sprinkle ashes on the heads of all the faithful on the first day of Lent. As a result of that practice, this day became known as Ash Wednesday. 

In most countries, the practice of placing or sprinkling a small pinch of palm ashes on the top of the head on Ash Wednesday remains common practice. However, in the United States, the custom has developed where ashes are placed on the forehead in the shape of a cross. 

Due to concerns about the spread of COVID-19, modifications must be made to our usual method of imposition of ashes. 

After consultation with medical leaders. there are only three options for the imposition of ashes that will be used in the Archdiocese of New Orleans for 2021: 

►Sprinkling a small pinch of dry ashes on the top of the head

► Using a cotton swab (Q-tip) to place ashes on the forehead

► Using a cotton ball to place ashes on the forehead

Whichever option is chosen, those imposing ashes are to wear a mask during the distribution of ashes and sanitize their hands afterwards. 

If a cotton swab or cotton ball is used, it is to be disposed of after each person and a new swab or ball used. A receptacle for used swabs/balls is to be located at each station where ashes are distributed. 

Lenten guidelines on fasting and abstinence

Please remember the importance of fasting and abstinence on Ash Wednesday and a strong spirit of prayer, fasting and charity throughout Lent.

► The guidelines for Catholics on fasting and abstinence are as follows: Fasting is to be observed on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday by all Catholics who are 18 years of age but not yet 59. Those who are bound to fast may take only one full meal. Two smaller meals are permitted if necessary to maintain strength according to each one’s needs, but eating solid foods between meals is not permitted.

Abstinence from meat is to be observed by all Catholics 14 years or older on Ash Wednesday, Good Friday and on all Fridays of Lent. The determination of certain days as obligatory days of penance should not be understood as limiting the occasions for Christian penance.