ASH WEDNESDAY,2025 Ash Wednesday marks a powerful moment of reflection, whereby all Christians are called to acknowledge their mortality, embrace repentance, and begin a journey of spiritual renewal. Receiving of ashes reminds us of our sinfulness and the need to be redeemed by Jesus Christ. The readings of the day invite us to return to the Lord who is gracious and merciful. We can only return to Him if only we are able to retrospect our inner lives and be in touch with our own fragility and allow the Lord to transform us. In the Gospel reading, we are called upon to pray, give alms as well as to fast. Our penitential acts must be done in privately and not for show off. Our prayer must move us close to God most especially in our actions. Almsgiving should be more of sharing our time, talent and giving ourselves to others. What do I want to give out to others? In fasting we empty ourselves of all that blocks our focusing to the Lord. As we start this Lenten period we are invited to take time and look at our inner life ask ourselves, what direction have I been taking, where do I need to make a change? What is preventing me from being in touch with the Lord? Kasyoka Elizabeth rscj .