Ash Wednesday February 18, 2026
Holy Mass, with distribution of ashes, will be celebrated at 8:00 AM and 5:30 PM
LENTEN FASTING AND ABSTINENCE
Mandatory Fasting Days
Ash Wednesday (February 18) and Good Friday (April 3) are mandatory fasting days for Catholics aged 18 to 59, consisting of one full meal and two smaller meals that together do not equal another full meal. Liquids (including water, coffee, and tea) are permitted, but eating between meals is not allowed. Medications are also permitted.
Mandatory Abstinence Days
All Fridays during Lent, including Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, require abstinence from meat for Catholics aged 14 and older.
Exemptions
Children, pregnant or nursing women, the elderly, the sick, and those whose health or work would be seriously affected are exempt from fasting and abstinence. The Church encourages common sense and pastoral discretion—no one should endanger their health to fulfill these obligations.