Despite regional traditions and differences in receiving ashes, the spiritual focus of the Lenten season does not change.

The ancient practice of fasting from food during Lent can free us from complacency and lead us to "hunger" for God, Pope Leo XIV said in his 2026 Lenten message. Ahead of Ash Wednesday, which marks ...

By Tracy Record West Seattle Blog editor What a time for a pastor to start a new gig: Rev. Jermell Witherspoon's first sermon as the new pastor of West Seattle's oldest church will be on Ash Wednesday ...