The expected number of devotees on the resumption of the physical Lenten celebration on Ash Wednesday served as a faithful commitment reminder and importance of communal worship. 

In a report acquired by the Manila Forefront from a Quiapo Church staff, about 8,000 faithfuls are expected to attend this year’s Ash Wednesday Masses at the church. 

For some massgoers, celebrating Ash Wednesday has become a tradition passed down by their elders.  

“Naging tradition na rin kasi namin sa family. Laking lola kasi ako. Namatay siya a few years ago, after that hindi ko na siya na-practice. Nito na lang ulit, bilang reminder sa kaniya,” said Nichole Eneria, a working student who attended the mass at Quiapo Church. 

As much as it is a tradition, a massgoer said that it also served as a reminder of a person’s connection to the Church and God’s eternal love. 

“Since I was young, doon na ako nasanay dahil lagi akong dinadala ng nanay ko, family ko. Aside from na-uuphold ko ‘yung teachings ng Church, para siyang default na dapat during Lent mag-start sa Ash Wednesday,” said Hannah Cantos, a second-year medicine student at the University of Santo Tomas.  

In an interview with the Manila Forefront, Fr. Jesus Jay Miranda, Jr., the Prior of the Priory of St. Thomas Aquinas, reminded Christians that the celebration should serve as motivation towards consistent devotion.  

“Gusto nila magpalagay ng ash but that’s only a symbolism, pero kapag tunay na Sunday mass wala naman sila,” Fr. Miranda said.  

Miranda added that devotion should include regular confession of sins, attendance at Sunday Mass, and being kind to one’s neighbors. 

“Sana nga kapag nagpalagay tayo ngayon [it is] because we are really dedicated to committing our life to God, na magbabagong buhay tayo,” Miranda added.  

Meanwhile, for Ranette, a devotee at the Manila Cathedral, the tradition is more than just a symbol.  

“Ito na dapat ‘yung start talaga ng fasting, ng abstinence, and ng sacrifice para dun sa Holy Week,” she said.  

But, for 60-year-old Vilma, her yearly devotion at the Ash Wednesday celebration marks a reminder to repent for her sins . 

“Galing tayo sa alabok babalik tayo sa alabok. Ang tao makasalanan… kapag humingi tayo ng kapatawaran, it makes us humble everyday,” Vilma added. – Maujerie Ann A. Miranda and Jan Paolo M. Espolong