SAN ANTONIO — A very important time of year begins on Wednesday for Christians across the world and in San Antonio.
It’s Ash Wednesday, which kicks off the start of the Lenten season.
The Archdiocese of San Antonio says Ash Wednesday is typically the most attended Mass service of the year. After the tragic event that unfolded Sunday at a Houston megachurch, safety is on top of everyone's mind.
Archbishop Gustavo Garcia Siller says the archdiocese has and continues to improve its strategies for safety. This goes for all 100-plus parishes that will be welcoming believers’ in for Ash Wednesday.
He says it can be a difficult task given that the church cannot control who enters a place of worship. However, after events in recent years, and the shooting at Lakewood Church in Houston, he says safety is essential.
“Since then, the churches we have been improving our strategies for safety, but it’s difficult because you cannot control everyones actions and minds and we are not called to.”
For those attending Mass on Wednesday, the Archdiocese says its best to check with your local parish for times.
At San Fernando Cathedral, ashes will be distributed every hour on the hour beginning at 8 a.m. Wednesday morning.
The ashes of this holy day symbolize two things, death and repentance. The archbishop says believers should use Ash Wednesday to refocus their faith.
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