February 17: Celebrate Ash Wednesday
Ash Wednesday is the beginning of the Lenten season.

- Watch: Watch the brief video, Lent In Three Minutes, to learn about Ash Wednesday and the season of Lent.
- Eat: Fast and abstain from meat today.
- Follow the guidelines from the USCCB listed here.
- Read A Reflection on Lenten Fasting to learn more about the ancient practice of fasting.
- Try one of the meatless recipes from Catholic Relief Services’ Rice Bowl program.
- Pray: Attend Mass in person or online.
- Do: Plan how you will pray, fast, and give during this Lenten season. Check these resources for ideas:
- Try the “1-1-1” plan.
- Complete a printable planning sheet and post it somewhere in your home as a daily reminder of your commitment.
- Check out Your Guide To A Catholic Lent: Everything you need for a more spiritual Lent at SimplyCatholic.com.