Three things to know about Ash Wednesday

ash wednesdayWhat to know about the start of Lent

February 18 is Ash Wednesday, which kicks off the first day of Lent and signals the approach of Easter.

Here are three things to know about the day.

What’s the purpose of Ash Wednesday?

It marks first day of the 40 days of Lent, a roughly six-week period (not including Sundays) dedicated to reflection, prayer and fasting in preparation for Easter.

It ends on Holy Thursday, the fifth day of Holy Week (the week leading up to Easter) that marks the Last Supper. In addition to certain rules about foods and fasting, many Christians (and even non-Christians) abstain from additional foods, luxury or material goods or certain activities and habits.

Where do the ashes some people put on their face come from?

They’re obtained from the burning of the palms of the previous Palm Sunday, which occurs on the Sunday before Easter, and applied during services. Palm Sunday marks Jesus’ return to Jerusalem, when people waved palm branches to celebrate his arrival. The ashes are typically mixed with Holy Water or oil.

What do the ashes mean?

The ashes, applied in the shape of a cross, are a symbol of penance, mourning and mortality. Centuries ago, participants used to sprinkle themselves with ashes and repent much more publicly, but the practice fell away sometime between the 8th-10th century before evolving into what it is today.

There aren’t any particular rules about how long the ashes should be worn, but most people wear them throughout the day as a public expression of their faith and penance.

Fasting during Lent

Fasting is a discipline practiced by Christians from the inception of the faith to deepen their level of intimacy with God. Through fasting Christians believe they worship God by earnestly seeking Him more than worldly pleasures.

When Christians say no to their fleshly appetites they believe their hunger for God grows, and they get to taste His presence. (James 4:8; Luke 14:18-20; Mark 4:19).

Ash Wednesday got its name from the ash placed on the forehead of believers as the season of Lent begins.

The practice is common throughout much of Christianity but is celebrated mainly by Catholics, Anglicans, Lutherans, and Methodists.

The use of ash to goes back to ancient time and was used to express mourning. The practice is common in the Old Testament where sprinkling oneself with ash was a way of expressing sorrow for sins and faults.

The prophet Jeremiah, for example, calls for repentance this way: “O daughter of my people, gird on sackcloth, roll in the ashes” (Jeremiah 6:26).

The prophet Daniel pleaded for God to rescue Israel with sackcloth and ashes as a sign of Israel’s repentance: “I turned to the Lord God, pleading in earnest prayer, with fasting, sackcloth and ashes” (Daniel 9:3).

Perhaps the best known example of repentance in the Old Testament also involves ashes. When the prophet Jonah finally obeyed God’s command and preached in the great city of Nineveh, his preaching was amazingly effective. Word of his message was carried to the king of Nineveh. “When the news reached the king of Nineveh, he rose from his throne, laid aside his robe, covered himself with sackcloth, and sat in the ashes” (Jonah 3:6).

In the New Testament, Jesus also refers to the use of sackcloth and ashes as signs of repentance: “Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty deeds done in your midst had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would long ago have repented in sackcloth and ashes” (Mathew 11:21, Luke 10:13).

Ash Wednesday began appearing in Christian writings around the 8th century. In those early days the ash was sprinkled on the head of the penitent person as opposed to being anointed on the forehead, as it is done today.

Ash Wednesday, like the season of Lent, is never mentioned in Scripture and is not commanded by God. Christians are free to either observe or not observe it. It also should be obvious that the imposition of ashes, like similar external practices, are meaningless, even hypocritical, unless there is a corresponding inner repentance and change of behavior. This is made clear in Isaiah 58:5-7 when God said:

“Is this the kind of fast I have chosen, only a day for a man to humble himself? Is it only for bowing one’s head like a reed and for lying on sackcloth and ashes ? Is that what you call a fast, a day acceptable to the LORD? Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter– when you see the naked, to clothe him, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?”

However, the Church recommends the observance of Ash Wednesday and Lent as a grand opportunity for repentance and spiritual renewal

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48 Comments

  1. Kally
    January 24, 2018

    Can you sincerely tell the world that all you do from day to day in your church are all biblical? From the house you live in, the money you make from the congregation, to your luxury. Remember, it is written, take nothing with you, go and preach to the world. Where is your rich and flamboyant lifestyle written in the holy book. Instead of criticizing Catholics, go to the unbelievers in the middle east and get them converted for God. CRITICISM does not win souls for God. People are being killed, beheaded, raped, houses burnt down and you can’t preach for these evil acts to stop but is busy criticizing Catholics, are you God to judge? Be wise and face your call if you have any please. For all have sinned and the glory of God is affected by our sins. Only by HIS grace shall we all including you be considered.

  2. tet cochon
    February 19, 2015

    hypocricy… there are people busy reveling on Monday and Tuesday in drunkenness, sex and women exposing their bodies in plain view of the public and cameras…now on Wednesday you going for a priest and bishop to put ash on your forehead…. this is not in scriptures…this is just another useless religious ritual that will just plummet thousands in hell to a lost eternity…the blind leading the blind….come on people search the scriptures for yourselves for in them you will be lead to eternal life. Fire bon those religious leaders who continue to hold their sheep in darkness and religious ignorance…shame!!!1

  3. February 19, 2015

    People BEWARE of the modern day Scribes and Pharisees. Read the bible for yourselves, ask GOD’s HOLY SPIRIT to direct you and HE will because HE is here present and is very much at work.
    Read Matthew 23 : 1- 35 For every time that I read that passage of scripture. I see exactly the works of these scribes and pharisees in past time very much alive and identically done by todays, modern scribes and pharisees in Dominica and the world over.
    OH LORD!!! set free the people from the wolves that are roaming about in sheep’s clothing.
    Amen.

  4. February 19, 2015

    For it’s by grace that a person is save through faith,it is not of works ( in simple words there is nothing that a person can do of him or herself that will grant that person a pass into GOD’s kingdom.
    The sacrificial work that was done many years ago by the son of GOD ( YESHUA ) ,that and that alone , when accepted will see the person through.
    And whilst yes, back then the folks use to repent in sack cloth and ashes . GRACE came by ( YESHUA ) the son of ALMIGHTY GOD. These rituals are no longer required. It’s for that reason the LORD would prefer a man or woman to tear their heart, be heart broken, feel sorry from the heart for the sinful acts committed .Rather than the rituals back then when their cloth was torn off ,sack cloth was put on and ashes poured all over the body.
    Joel 2 : 13 Rend your heart,and not your garments. And you could read the rest of the verse it will do you good.
    The big ash cross on the forehead is just an outward appearance. GOD alone and knows the…

  5. anonymous2
    February 18, 2015

    It’s just another pagan ritual. The light of the world is the SUN. The darkness that fell for 2 days was an ECLIPSE OF THE SUN.

  6. Stunned
    February 18, 2015

    Non Catholics need to learn to respect Catholics, their beliefs & religion. You don’t see Catholics bashing & criticizing other denominations when they do their other acts of penance & repentance. However no matter what Catholics do it’s considered an issue. Just remember that all the different religions right now derived in some way or another from the catholic church seeing that the Catholic church was the first. And as for you “Rev. Donald Hill” how did your church come about? Was it because you didn’t like something that that your previous church was doing so u formed your own. Because that’s how other churches were formed. If u read at all u would that. But you already know.
    I’ts not the Catholic church only who practice things which are considered hypocritical. It happens in all denominations so please stop being such a hypocrite yourself!!!!!! I’m sure that there are things that you do in your church which are not in the bible but still you do. Judge not…

  7. Muslim_Always
    February 18, 2015

    The reality of many practices adopted by the Catholic Church has no basis in the scriptures they claim to follow. If one claims to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ peace be upon him; where did Jesus Christ and his disciples practice “Ash Wednesday” or a particular day prior to Easter?

    “Ash Wednesday, like the season of Lent, is never mentioned in Scripture and is not commanded by God.” This is the point. It is not mentioned in scripture and it is not commanded by God thus it is an innovated practice which has no basis; why must Catholics follow the traditions created by men rather than what was legislated by God All Mighty?

    For all sincere people seeking a spiritual journey, you have the choice to begin at this website. http://www.whyislam.org. Feel free to look into something new – you may never know what God has in store for you. Peace be to the one who seeks guidance. :)

    • The Facts
      February 18, 2015

      If you call yourself a Muslim, what do you know about Scripture?
      The Catholic Church has Scripture and Tradition. Go and study the Holy Bible from Matthew to the Book of Revelation. Give special attention to the writings of St. Paul who was inspired by the Holy Spirit and wrote of the “Tradition of the Church and Its religious teaching.” Search for it. If you are smart enough you will find it.
      Were you not once a Catholic? Mohammed was a Catholic who renounced his faith. Through the years, note how he lived and what he left behind as is also occurring today.
      God’s Glorious Kingdom consists of only love, peace and unity. Ask yourself, where in eternity would the soul of Mohammed be?
      Make penance, sacrifice and repentance for your fellow Muslims. Here is your opportunity, Ash Wednesday and forty days of Lent. God wants this of you. He is Our Almighty Father with His Blessed Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, Our King and Savior of the world with His Holy Spirit the…

      • The Facts
        February 18, 2015

        Paraclete; not Allah.

      • out of south city
        February 20, 2015

        This is just pure foolishness. All these rituals will take us nowhere.

  8. February 18, 2015

    this is such hypocrisy. They encourage revelling a.nd bakanal for 2 days and put a cross out of ash for what again???????? . In this era that we live in, I can’t believe people live in such ignorance :(

  9. beleiver
    February 18, 2015

    I am sick of this ash Wednesday nonsense. This foolishness is for a bunch of hypocrites who continue to revel year after year and then begin the mockery of ash on there foreheads as soon as there reveling is done. do you really think this pleases God? Can he be fooled? You people need to figure out who you really want to serve. The almighty God or the devil.

    • The Facts
      February 18, 2015

      You are not a believer. You are not serving God but the devil. He is pleased with what you stated. You are the hypocrite. You can rant and rave all you want but your little words cannot change a thing.
      God ordained that Ash Wednesday is here to stay until the end of time. From your words, you are going down the path of perdition. :twisted: :mrgreen: :twisted: :mrgreen:
      See about your soul to save it and let others mind theirs. You are in no position to speak on their behalf and worst yet on behalf of God.
      Little do you know about God. He knows you, your heart and what type of lifestyle you live. YOU cannot deceive him. When you die you will know the truth which you are denying. :twisted: :mrgreen: :twisted: :mrgreen:

    • February 19, 2015

      Christians do not enjoy sinful activities because Christ has changed them. They are different now! The things they once loved they now hate and the things they once hated they now love.

      The carnival would be off bounds to them. They might stop, look, and listen, then move on. They know the things that happen at carnival – the things we hear or read about after carnival ends – are not of the Father but are of the world. (1 John 2:15-17)

      Christians have –

      a different birth. (St. John 3:6)

      a different quality of life. (Ephesians 5:1-8)

      serve a different Master. (Matthew 6:24)

      walk a different road. (Matthew 7:13,14)

      travel to a different destiny. (Luke 16:22,23)

      These things do not describe the regular Sunday-go-to-church (and get it over with for the week) crowd!
      Christians are a minority of people who have had an encounter with the risen Christ. They love the things of God and pursue Him. They are watching for His return.

      Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill…

      • February 20, 2015

        Praise the Lord! And those Christians are of Body, Mind, and Spirit–not just the name.

  10. The Evangelist
    February 18, 2015

    @ dominica, I did not mean to criticize your religion because as far as I am concerned whether they go by the name of Catholic, Pentecostal, Baptist, 7 day Adventist, and others, they are all the same. Furthermore, I see pastors, evangelists, bishops, priests and others in the same category. Most of them are just pure hypocrites and after their money. How doe someone convince me that they are a true bishop and accept bribery on the eve of an election? How does one convince me they are true Evangelist, pastor or priest and were seen delivering bribe money to voters as if is tracks they were spreading? How could you be a true bishop, priest, evangelist, pastor and say nothing when Skerrit was referred to as Christ? Said nothing when Skerrit suggested that praying to God takes too much time and should come to him with their needs? Said nothing when they saw ungodliness by those in office was on the threat? Said nothing when evil men bombed GON Emmanuel’s house on Christmas day?…

    • The Facts
      February 18, 2015

      What you should do is to mind your own business and cease criticizing others because you are a sinner which God knows too well and how much of a great sinner you are. Save your soul! :twisted: :mrgreen: :twisted: :mrgreen:
      When last you prayed for Dominica, nationals and yourself? God will hold you accountable for your criticisms while you do nothing good, mortally and spiritually. Take a good look at yourself. :twisted: :mrgreen: :twisted: :mrgreen:

      • out of south city
        February 20, 2015

        This is just pure foolishness. All these rituals will take us nowhere.
        Why are you asking The Evangelist to stop criticizing others when you do the same? You just need to get out of here with your stupidness and religious talk that amounts to nothing. Religion cannot save anyone.

    • Christina Charles
      February 19, 2015

      And Evangelist, tell me how is it that you left your original church during the elections and was winning and dinning with Pastor Rod and his Unity Team. Had little or no time to check out home church, but was evangelizing all around Dominica on assignment for the Blue Buds. In this time of technology how comes no one took pictures of the Evangelist they say was dishing out money on the Eve of the Elections?

      Ungodlyness? Spell that word……….UNgodlyness? These days ungodliness is no longer on the streets nah, but inside HOLY CHURCHES. Bro these days , you don’t know who to trust. Pastors more unholy than lay people. Talk to me. WE do not have role models any more.

      Think again and REPENT.

  11. February 18, 2015

    There is not one single verse in the Bible that says anything about Lent. Ash Wednesday is not mentioned in the New Testament. The custom of having the sign of the cross made on your forehead with ashes was not practiced in the early church. In the seventh century the Catholic church designated a forty day period of devotions based on the forty days Christ fasted in the wilderness. We are not clear on when or how Ash Wednesday came into existence.

    Lent is part of a much larger belief system that is practiced by people who think they must earn their salvation by good works, religious rites, and ceremonies. They do not understand that on the cross at Calvary Christ took ALL their sins upon Himself and paid the price in FULL for their salvation! Please get your Bible and read Isaiah 53:5,6 and Romans 5:1, 6-8. All they must do is believe this! Read St. John 3:16, Acts 16:16-31, Acts 10:43. Please read especially Ephesians 2:8,9.

    Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. International…

    • Pascal
      February 18, 2015

      Rev Hill

      Jesus took ALL our sins Including yours and mine and paid the price for OUR salvation and not just those of OTHERs as you appear to suggest in your comment,

      • February 19, 2015

        You have read it wrong.

        When I said “Christ took all THEIR sins upon Himself” I was referring to those who do not understand this truth. If you would read the entire sentence that is what you would see.

        Of course I know He took all OUR sins upon Himself. I am so thankful that He took all MY sins.
        Each of us must believe it was for us personally He died. I remember the night so many years ago after a gospel meeting in Dominion Gospel Hall in Orillia, Ontario, Canada, when I made it personal. That night I passed from death unto life!

        Like Paul I can say “…the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for ME. (Galatians 2:20)

        Praise the Lord!

        Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. International Evangelist.

    • February 18, 2015

      Rev. Donald Hill February 18, 2015

      I am glad that you responded to this news article for you have spoken on my behalf; thumbs up number 4 is mine to you.

      Unless man can learn to differentiate between the “works of religion” and the walk of Love, which is the walk of Life in Jesus Christ then the world will continue in its state of darkness–the deaf leading the blind to the pit of death.

      The apostle John said about Jesus–“the Light shines in the darkness and the darkness did not comprehend it” John 1: 5 This unfortunate situation continues in this world today; for man continues to refuse the free gift of Salvation, God Grace of Love, because they will not learn to relate to God through there measure of faith..

      What else is there for God to do for the redemption of souls–before Jesus bowed His head and gave up the Spirit–He said: “It is finished” John 19: 30

      • February 18, 2015

        Also, while I am at it, Jesus said to the people, who were asking Him for signs, that the sign of Jonah was the only sign He would show them. He said: “For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth”. Matthew 12; 40

        It is He, Himself who said a day has 12 hours: in speaking to His disciples: Jesus answered: “Are there not twelve hours in the day?” John 11:9

        Therefore the 3 days and 3 nights which Jesus spoke about Jonah–would total “72 hours”- if Jesus died at about 3 pm of a day of the Pass Over week, where do we get 72 hours between the evening or night of Friday and before early in the morning of the first day– according the ladies of the Bible–which we view as Sunday?

    • The Facts
      February 18, 2015

      If you are spiritually enlightened you should know that the Catholic Church has its traditions, just as St. Paul said, “Hold on to the traditions which you got . . . from your Fathers . . . The Fathers of the Church.
      You are wrong and turning the tables. It is people as you, the protestants who think and teach that by faith alone you can be saved.
      The Catholic Church believes and teaches by “faith and works.”
      When you quote from the Bible, quote every passage of the Bible especially the New Testament. Christians are the New Testament people.
      The Christian Catholic Church is more Christian than you are. It alone has the fullest of the Faith, a mandate given to It by Our Lord Jesus Christ.
      Some of you have something against this Church. So does Satan who was thrown out of Heaven because of disobedience and rebelliousness. This is why the churches which are established after the Catholic Church was established are angry with It and are rebellious. So is Satan.

    • out of south city
      February 20, 2015

      Jeusus is a white man just like you if he is the son of god.

  12. dominica
    February 18, 2015

    Evangelist you claim to be an evangelist, a so called man of God, and that is what you are saying. Even though your are not Catholic, learn to respect other peoples religious beliefs. You cannot be bashing people like that, to much hatred in Dominica that is what is our problem it is sickening.

    • The Evangelist
      February 18, 2015

      @dominica, I am not bashing other people religious beliefs. I am simply denouncing wrong. The Catholic church uses the same bible that I use and what they are teaching here CANNOT be seen in the bible. In fact if what they said their outward appearance represents is true, then read this: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart 1 Sam. 16:7. So God cannot be tricked by what we have on our faces, our fasting, our ashes or any of those things mentioned above. God looks at the heart! If you think I was bashing then what about Jesus here: And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, they have their reward Matt. 6:5-6. FYI, I am not an evangelist. I just use that name to expose the evangelist that traded for politics. I see pastors, evangelist, priest, bishop as one

    • The Facts
      February 18, 2015

      It shows how much they know, how much they love God and others. Our Lord said to love one another. Yet they bash the Catholic Church. This is proof of what is in their hearts – lack of love.
      I am so happy that I am a Catholic, born of Catholic parents and well taught in matters of the Catholic Faith. There is not one of them who can sway me from my Catholic Faith. In fact, today, I am more so, being more knowledgeable and enlightened.
      They hate the Catholic Church. It would be interesting to know, those who have predeceased us where their souls are in eternity.
      On Judgment Day, when Our Lord Jesus Christ himself will reveal the truth to them (in fact when they die) many will be envious. They will wail and gnash their teeth that they bashed the Catholic Church and failed to worship in it.
      Satan has done a good job of them. I feel sorry for them. I will continue to propagate the Catholic Faith and to defend it with the help of God. Thanks be to God! So help me God!

      • out of south city
        February 20, 2015

        Keep looking for jesus to return. You will wait for eternity. One of the slaves’ ships was called jesus.

  13. best for country
    February 18, 2015

    boo boo boo.
    ash is nowhere in the bible for no no ash Wednesday. God never talk about that

    • The Facts
      February 18, 2015

      Divorce and fornication are in the Bible. How many people as you practice them, live them? Speak for yourself. I could state more. It would be better for people as you to keep quiet for whatever you say fall right back on you. :twisted: :mrgreen: :twisted: :mrgreen: :twisted:
      When I write my book I will address all these issues.

  14. The Evangelist
    February 18, 2015

    Three things to know about Ash Wednesday:

    1. What’s the purpose of Ash Wednesday? The truth: It is a sign of religious hypocrisy and deception. I do not know which God man thinks he can trick with his nonsense. certainly not Jehovah God. How do people do very ungodly things all year, up to a few hours before Ash Wednesday and allow the catholic priest and Bishop to trick them to believe they dedicate themselves to reflection, prayer and fasting in preparation for Easter the following year, only to go back to regular old life after Easter. Lie that!
    2. Where do the ashes some people put on their face come from? The truth: It came from the pit of hell. Unholy priests and bishop, who publicly accepted bribery to the tune of $500K apart from what was done in secret, make water holy? Lie that!
    3. What do the ashes mean? The truth: It means just as evil men wear masks to commit crime, we too can trick with our fake face. Lie that! The well known evangelist cannot criticize it so…

    • Thinking
      February 18, 2015

      You sound like quite the evangelist to me! Why so angry?

      • The Evangelist
        February 18, 2015

        @Thinking, that’s because a true evangelist will get angry when evil is prevailing before his eyes. Ask Evangelist Peter before he got converted. He even got angry when UWP welcomed the year 2000 with a celebration.

    • out of south city
      February 18, 2015

      This is just man-made foolishness. All these rituals take one no where and does nothing for those who believe in them.

    • February 18, 2015

      The Evangelist February 18, 2015

      Well I know it about you already; you said that you are a fake “evangelist” for whatever reasons, then I am not expecting to read anything “sound” –and pertaining to God– from your mind. Still for all I was about to agree with you, but you spoiled it when you got to response number 2–that is just too bad.

    • February 18, 2015

      Some feel the Evangelist is extreme and says harsh things. But at least this individual know which side of the fence he (or she) is on.

      The Bishop knows the carnival is a bad influence so he tells people not to defile their bodies during the revelling. Then he and his priests will hear the confessions of sin that took place during the carnival. Yet next year again he will not tell them not to attend because he knows they will go anyway. It is their nature and the only life they know. So he is forced to take an uncomfortable position in he middle of the road.

      The evangelist’s worst mistake is the fact that he does not say anything positive. He bears no good news. Where is the gospel? (1 Corinthians 15:1-4 and Romans 1:16) He needs to tell you how to be born again (St. John 3:3) (S. John 3:16) and become “a new creature.” (2 Corinthians 5:17) (Ephesians 5:8) Then your life will be filled with praise to God, not revelling!

      Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. International…

      • DA Native in Texas
        February 21, 2015

        Dear International Evangelist, a few weeks ago you mentioned that Christians in this 21st century should not be bound by the “Mosiac Laws”, I asked you a few specific questions as it pertains to observing all of God’s laws and you are yet to respond. I am still awaiting your answers to the questions I asked you. Can Muderers, Adulterers, Theives, Worshipers of Idols keep doing these sins and do not repent or stop committing these and still go to heaven? The reason why I am asking is because you stated that we are Christians of the New Testament. Please enlighten me with God’s holy words.

    • The Facts
      February 18, 2015

      So-called evangelist, save thyself and thy soul. :twisted: :mrgreen: :twisted: :mrgreen:

      • August 16, 2015

        “save thyself and thy soul.”

        I could not save myself. I was “…dead in trespasses and sins;” (Ephesians 2:1) What can a dead man do to save himself?

        The Word of God clearly says “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works lest any man should boast. (Ephesians 2:8,9)

        If I could save myself I would not need a Savior.

        If I could save myself God would not have had to send His only begotten Son to suffer, bleed, and die on the cross. Please read Isaiah 53:5,6 and Romans 5:6-8.

        But when Christ was on the cross I was on His mind! On the cross sin’s demands were paid. Forgiveness, peace with God, and eternal life are all IN Christ! The Bible declares “And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. (1 John 5:11,12)

        Please read Revelation 3:20!

        Sincerely, Rev. Donald…

  15. Pascal
    February 18, 2015

    What is the correct way to fast?
    Thanks

    • The Evangelist
      February 18, 2015

      @ Pascal, according to Jesus, the correct way to fast is when you do it in secret between you and God. What sense it makes to fast to show God how you believe and worship God by earnestly seeking Him more than worldly pleasures, and as soon as Easter season is over you go back to the same old life style? Religion lies and deceives too much! It’s time to serve God in spirit and in truth rather than serving religion

      • The Facts
        February 18, 2015

        The words of Our Lord Jesus Christ: “Judge not that you may not be judged accordingly” and two-fold. Your day is coming.

    • February 18, 2015

      Pascal February 18, 2015

      The Bible tells us that Jesus fasted for 40 days in the Wilderness, after John the Baptiste baptized Him.

      Why? Because in His human form, He needed regeneration –the authority and power of the Spirit– as a human being.

      The Bible tells us that Jesus was tempted by Satan after His 40 days of fasting–that was a test from the Father. Eternal Spirit Christ–Jesus, the Son in flesh and bones overcome all of those temptations. For being hungry: He said to Satan: Man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that comes from the mouth of God Matthew 4: 4

      Those stories in the Bible are meant to show us, how we too can overcome the temptations, which causes us to sin against our Holy God–but we need Holy Spirit to guide us against them.

      Fasting the way of expressing a need–but one that is in harmony with the plans of God, for us –we do not need any special day to fast–we simply fast when we need fulfillment

      • The Facts
        February 18, 2015

        You are correct about the forty days of fasting. Catholics are now in forty days of Lent. Ash Wednesday means, “You are dust and to dust you shall return. Repent and believe in the Gospel.” Dust to dust, ashes to ashes was not spoken of the soul.
        You left the Catholic Church. This is because you were not knowledgeable in this Church and were swayed away from it. Those who are not Catholics and practicing ones at that, are not experts on Catholicism. They are in no position to speak on its behalf and to denounce its religious devotions and practices.
        Catholics can fast at any time they so wish. However, the Church as our Mother, has informed us of specific days to fast which is approved by Our Lord Jesus Christ Himself.
        The Mother of God, the Ever Blessed Virgin Mary told a visionary, fast on Wednesdays and Fridays, on bread and water, if you (we) can. This is aside from Lent. Fasting is for a special reason.

      • The Facts
        February 18, 2015

        Therefore, Catholics as I would appreciate it if non-Catholics would be gracious enough to respect our religious beliefs and practices. It has absolutely nothing to do with them. They must learn to leave us alone.
        Keep in mind what Our Lord taught us: “Do unto others as you have others do unto you. This is the Law and the Prophets.”
        Some of you do not do that. You speak about God but you do not practice what He has taught us. This is a grievous/mortal sin.
        Once again, when you die all will be revealed to you. You will see your errors and how erroneously you criticized the Catholic Church and allowed others to deceive you in leaving this Faith. I hope it will not be too late for you.
        Any sensible person should know that Our Lord would never have established thousands of different churches, each with their own leader which has caused lack of love, division, disunity, enmity and who misinterpret the Bible to suit their mentality. The day will come when they will regret it.

    • August 16, 2015

      Pascal:

      There are different types of fasts. In a general fast we simply refrain from eating although we may drink little water. Like our friend The Evangelist says it should be a private matter between us and God. Like we are not suppose to brag about how long we have been fasting.

      A fast can last for a day or any number of days. If you have a medical condition it is wise to check with your doctor before going on a fast. If you are on meds continue your meds throughout your fast using what water is necessary for that purpose. Use only what small amount of food as may be required with whatever medications must be taken with food. This does not violate the fast.

      Fasting is not to earn or win God’s favor. It is to FOCUS on the Lord by drawing away from the natural things and the enjoyments of life so we can better get into serious praying.

      You must understand that fasting is an exercise for Christians. It does not save us.

      Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. Evangelist.

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