OLPS Observes Ash Wednesday 2023
Soberien Kate Fernandeez | Staffer | The OLPSian Times
The OLPSIAN-PAULINIAN community celebrates Ash Wednesday as the beginning of lent and the observance of fasting and abstinence for the Christian community on February 22, 2023.
It is a day of reconciliation and the birth of a new beginning within oneself. During this period, we are called to remember that we are made from dust and from dust we shall return — as everything comes to an end.
The day started with a mass ministered by Rev. Fr. John Paul Buenafe. Some students celebrated the mass at the school’s gymnasium while others stayed inside their classrooms and celebrated the holy mass online.
Moreover, the mass reached its peak as the marking of the cross commenced; marking each student, staff, and faculty members one by one — carrying a symbol of morality — death, repentance, and the crucifixion of Christ the King.
On the same day, while the morning batch celebrated Ash Wednesday with a mass, the afternoon batch honored the first day of Lent by simply getting in line for the marking of the ash, and went back to their respective classrooms.
Following the aftermath of the mass, students and teachers have a moment of prayer for their sins and be with God’s loving guidance — for Ash Wednesday is not only a moment of reflection but a moment of forgiveness, peace, and a connection with God.
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Lenten season that is celebrated by Christians all around the world for 40 days. This includes the death of Christ and eventually leads up to the most awaited return, also known as Easter or Resurrection Sunday.