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WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 110388 [post_author] => 32 [post_date] => 2026-03-31 14:23:13 [post_date_gmt] => 2026-03-31 14:23:13 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>Average Catholic diocese seeing increase of 38% in people entering the Church at Easter in 2026 compared to 2025, according to an analysis of data obtained exclusively by Hallow</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>CHICAGO, March 31, 2026</strong> - The Catholic Church in the United States is seeing a significant increase in people entering the Church this Easter season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Hallow, the #1 prayer app, today announced the release of new original data showing a significant rise in catechumens and candidates across the United States in 2026.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Based on data compiled exclusively by Hallow from more than 140 of the 175 U.S. dioceses (more than 80%), dioceses are experiencing a <strong>38% annual increase on average</strong> in individuals entering the Church through the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA).&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">This includes both <strong>catechumens</strong> (unbaptized people preparing for full initiation into the Church) and <strong>candidates</strong> (those already baptized who are entering into full communion through confirmation).</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The diocese-by-diocese numbers are available in the interactive map below:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:html --> <div class="flourish-embed flourish-chart" data-src="visualisation/28304463"><script src="https://public.flourish.studio/resources/embed.js"></script><noscript><img src="https://public.flourish.studio/visualisation/28304463/thumbnail" width="100%" alt="visualization" /></noscript></div> <!-- /wp:html --> <p><noscript></p> <style> .diocese-table-wrap {<br /> font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;<br /> max-width: 680px;<br /> margin: 0 auto;<br /> }<br /> .diocese-table-wrap h2 {<br /> font-size: 1.25rem;<br /> font-weight: bold;<br /> margin-bottom: 0.75rem;<br /> color: #1a1a1a;<br /> }<br /> .diocese-table-wrap table {<br /> width: 100%;<br /> border-collapse: collapse;<br /> font-size: 0.9rem;<br /> color: #222;<br /> }<br /> .diocese-table-wrap thead tr {<br /> background-color: #1a3a5c;<br /> color: #ffffff;<br /> }<br /> .diocese-table-wrap thead th {<br /> padding: 10px 14px;<br /> text-align: left;<br /> font-weight: bold;<br /> letter-spacing: 0.03em;<br /> }<br /> .diocese-table-wrap tbody tr:nth-child(even) {<br /> background-color: #f4f7fb;<br /> }<br /> .diocese-table-wrap tbody tr:hover {<br /> background-color: #dde8f5;<br /> }<br /> .diocese-table-wrap td {<br /> padding: 8px 14px;<br /> border-bottom: 1px solid #dde2e8;<br /> }<br /> .diocese-table-wrap td:last-child {<br /> text-align: right;<br /> font-variant-numeric: tabular-nums;<br /> }<br /> .diocese-table-wrap .growth-pos { color: #1a6e2e; font-weight: 600; }<br /> .diocese-table-wrap .growth-neg { color: #b91c1c; font-weight: 600; }<br /> .diocese-table-wrap .growth-na { color: #888; }<br /> </style> <div class="diocese-table-wrap"> <h2>RCIA Catechumen Growth by U.S. Catholic Diocese</h2> <table> <thead> <tr> <th>Diocese</th> <th>Growth</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr> <td>Diocese of Albany</td> <td class="growth-pos">41%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Alexandria in Louisiana</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Allentown</td> <td class="growth-pos">7%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Altoona–Johnstown</td> <td class="growth-pos">83%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Amarillo</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of Anchorage-Juneau</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Arlington</td> <td class="growth-pos">13%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of Atlanta</td> <td class="growth-pos">16%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Austin</td> <td class="growth-pos">52%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Baker</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of Baltimore</td> <td class="growth-pos">67%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Baton Rouge</td> <td class="growth-pos">32%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Beaumont</td> <td class="growth-pos">29%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Belleville</td> <td class="growth-pos">71%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Biloxi</td> <td class="growth-pos">36%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Birmingham in Alabama</td> <td class="growth-pos">39%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Bismarck</td> <td class="growth-pos">31%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Boise</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of Boston</td> <td class="growth-pos">49%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Bridgeport</td> <td class="growth-pos">20%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Brooklyn</td> <td class="growth-pos">47%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Brownsville</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Buffalo</td> <td class="growth-pos">14%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Burlington</td> <td class="growth-pos">38%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Camden</td> <td class="growth-pos">23%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Charleston</td> <td class="growth-pos">27%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Charlotte</td> <td class="growth-pos">43%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Cheyenne</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of Chicago</td> <td class="growth-pos">52%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of Cincinnati</td> <td class="growth-pos">29%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Cleveland</td> <td class="growth-pos">27%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Colorado Springs</td> <td class="growth-pos">64%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Columbus</td> <td class="growth-pos">70%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Corpus Christi</td> <td class="growth-pos">52%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Covington</td> <td class="growth-pos">57%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Crookston</td> <td class="growth-pos">23%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Dallas</td> <td class="growth-pos">72%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Davenport</td> <td class="growth-pos">77%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of Denver</td> <td class="growth-pos">35%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Des Moines</td> <td class="growth-pos">51%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of Detroit</td> <td class="growth-pos">46%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Dodge City</td> <td class="growth-pos">20%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of Dubuque</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Duluth</td> <td class="growth-pos">145%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of El Paso</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Erie</td> <td class="growth-pos">4%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Evansville</td> <td class="growth-pos">40%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Fairbanks</td> <td class="growth-pos">43%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Fall River</td> <td class="growth-pos">71%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Fargo</td> <td class="growth-neg">-29%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Fort Wayne–South Bend</td> <td class="growth-pos">10%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Fort Worth</td> <td class="growth-pos">37%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Fresno</td> <td class="growth-pos">61%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Gallup</td> <td class="growth-pos">6%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of Galveston–Houston</td> <td class="growth-pos">11%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Gary</td> <td class="growth-pos">0%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Gaylord</td> <td class="growth-pos">100%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Grand Island</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Grand Rapids</td> <td class="growth-pos">12%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Great Falls–Billings</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Green Bay</td> <td class="growth-pos">19%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Greensburg</td> <td class="growth-pos">28%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Harrisburg</td> <td class="growth-pos">77%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of Hartford</td> <td class="growth-pos">58%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Helena</td> <td class="growth-pos">60%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Honolulu</td> <td class="growth-pos">16%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Houma–Thibodaux</td> <td class="growth-pos">3%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of Indianapolis</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Jackson</td> <td class="growth-pos">28%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Jefferson City</td> <td class="growth-pos">48%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Joliet in Illinois</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Kalamazoo</td> <td class="growth-pos">35%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas</td> <td class="growth-pos">5%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Kansas City–Saint Joseph</td> <td class="growth-pos">70%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Knoxville</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of La Crosse</td> <td class="growth-pos">10%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Lafayette in Indiana</td> <td class="growth-pos">21%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Lafayette in Louisiana</td> <td class="growth-pos">64%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Lake Charles</td> <td class="growth-pos">42%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Lansing</td> <td class="growth-pos">30%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Laredo</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Las Cruces</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Las Vegas</td> <td class="growth-pos">18%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Lexington</td> <td class="growth-neg">-2%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Lincoln</td> <td class="growth-pos">79%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Little Rock</td> <td class="growth-pos">5%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of Los Angeles</td> <td class="growth-pos">139%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of Louisville</td> <td class="growth-pos">7%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Lubbock</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Madison</td> <td class="growth-pos">13%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Manchester</td> <td class="growth-pos">54%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Marquette</td> <td class="growth-pos">13%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Memphis</td> <td class="growth-pos">6%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Metuchen</td> <td class="growth-pos">2%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of Miami</td> <td class="growth-pos">27%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of Milwaukee</td> <td class="growth-pos">26%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of Mobile</td> <td class="growth-pos">35%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Monterey in California</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Nashville</td> <td class="growth-pos">35%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of New Orleans</td> <td class="growth-pos">12%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of New Ulm</td> <td class="growth-pos">73%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of New York</td> <td class="growth-pos">36%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of Newark</td> <td class="growth-pos">30%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Norwich</td> <td class="growth-pos">119%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Oakland</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Ogdensburg</td> <td class="growth-pos">5%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of Oklahoma City</td> <td class="growth-pos">60%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of Omaha</td> <td class="growth-pos">100%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Orange</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Orlando</td> <td class="growth-pos">13%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Owensboro</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Palm Beach</td> <td class="growth-pos">19%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Paterson</td> <td class="growth-pos">2%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Pensacola–Tallahassee</td> <td class="growth-pos">144%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Peoria</td> <td class="growth-pos">48%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of Philadelphia</td> <td class="growth-pos">60%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Phoenix</td> <td class="growth-pos">23%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Pittsburgh</td> <td class="growth-pos">108%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of Portland in Maine</td> <td class="growth-pos">45%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of Portland in Oregon</td> <td class="growth-pos">38%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Providence</td> <td class="growth-pos">76%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Pueblo</td> <td class="growth-pos">105%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Raleigh</td> <td class="growth-pos">21%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Rapid City</td> <td class="growth-pos">96%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Reno</td> <td class="growth-neg">-21%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Richmond</td> <td class="growth-pos">38%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Rochester</td> <td class="growth-pos">56%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Rockford</td> <td class="growth-pos">26%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Rockville Centre</td> <td class="growth-pos">15%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Sacramento</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Saginaw</td> <td class="growth-pos">48%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Salina</td> <td class="growth-pos">6%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Salt Lake City</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of San Angelo</td> <td class="growth-pos">2%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of San Antonio</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of San Bernardino</td> <td class="growth-pos">102%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of San Diego</td> <td class="growth-pos">27%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of San Francisco</td> <td class="growth-pos">7%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of San Jose in California</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of Santa Fe</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Santa Rosa in California</td> <td class="growth-pos">23%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Savannah</td> <td class="growth-pos">30%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Scranton</td> <td class="growth-pos">51%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of Seattle</td> <td class="growth-pos">20%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Shreveport</td> <td class="growth-neg">-22%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Sioux City</td> <td class="growth-pos">0%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Sioux Falls</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Spokane</td> <td class="growth-pos">9%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Springfield in Illinois</td> <td class="growth-neg">-1%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Springfield in Massachusetts</td> <td class="growth-neg">-33%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Springfield–Cape Girardeau</td> <td class="growth-pos">54%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of St. Augustine</td> <td class="growth-pos">33%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Saint Cloud</td> <td class="growth-pos">34%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of St. Louis</td> <td class="growth-pos">48%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis</td> <td class="growth-pos">54%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Saint Petersburg</td> <td class="growth-pos">40%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Steubenville</td> <td class="growth-pos">47%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Stockton</td> <td class="growth-pos">45%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Superior</td> <td class="growth-pos">5%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Syracuse</td> <td class="growth-pos">1%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Toledo</td> <td class="growth-pos">12%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Trenton</td> <td class="growth-pos">28%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Tucson</td> <td class="growth-pos">41%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Tulsa</td> <td class="growth-pos">115%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Tyler</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Venice in Florida</td> <td class="growth-pos">94%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Victoria in Texas</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Archdiocese of Washington</td> <td class="growth-pos">12%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Wheeling–Charleston</td> <td class="growth-pos">43%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Wichita</td> <td class="growth-pos">4%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Wilmington</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Winona-Rochester</td> <td class="growth-pos">26%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Worcester</td> <td class="growth-pos">16%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Yakima</td> <td class="growth-na">N/A</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diocese of Youngstown</td> <td class="growth-pos">48%</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <p></noscript></p> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The growth of people joining the Church is widespread and notable across dioceses of all sizes and regions.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The four largest dioceses in the U.S. all saw significant growth:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Archdiocese of Los Angeles:</strong> +139%</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Diocese of Phoenix:</strong> +23%</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Archdiocese of New York:</strong> +36%</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Archdiocese of Chicago:</strong> +52%</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Others in different parts of the country reporting strong growth include:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Diocese of Duluth (Minn.): </strong>+145%</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee (Fla.): </strong>+85%</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Diocese of Rapid City (S.D.): </strong>+96%</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Diocese of Honolulu (Hawaii):</strong> +37%</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Diocese of Fairbanks (Alaska):</strong> +40%</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In the Diocese of Helena (Mont.), diocesan officials believe this year’s group, which is 60% larger than last year, is likely the largest that the diocese has had since the Rite of Election was restored following Vatican II in the 1970s.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Even in dioceses where year-over-year growth is modest or slightly down, the broader trend remains strong, especially when compared to pandemic-era lows in 2020 and 2021. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Diocese of Shreveport (La.) is set to welcome 257 combined candidates and catechumens this year, down from 329 a year ago, but up considerably from 2021, when it welcomed a combined 89 people.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Many dioceses saw record-breaking classes in 2025 and continue to build on that momentum in 2026. In 2024, the Archdiocese of Mobile (Ala.) saw its largest group of candidates and catechumens in a decade. Last year, it surpassed that number. And this year, it’s up 36% compared to 2025.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The fastest-growing diocese was the Diocese of Duluth (Minn.), which grew +145%, with 186 combined catechumens and candidates in 2026 compared to just 76 a year ago.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Archdiocese of Los Angeles, which is welcoming more than 8,000 people into the Church, more than any other diocese in the country, grew +139% from last year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">"Really incredible to see what’s going on across dioceses in the US this Easter. The Lord is truly at work, bringing so many back to Him and to experience His love right now," said Alex Jones, Hallow CEO and Co-Founder. "As we see firsthand at Hallow the impact of what so many priests, sisters, Church leaders, and more are doing across parishes in the US, it’s beautiful to see the fruits of their labor and the ways folks are reaching for the Lord." </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">"It’s been our mission from the beginning to introduce folks to the love the Lord has for them and lead them into a better relationship with Him through His bride, the Church - an honor to get to partner with so many parishes, schools, and dioceses that are doing just that."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-supporting-the-church-s-growth"><strong>Supporting the Church’s </strong>Growth</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Hallow is committed to supporting the Church and its sacramental life.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">For anyone enrolled in OCIA, Hallow offers complimentary subscriptions through their parish. If you’re interested in including your parish, <a href="https://sharehallow.com/ocia">find more information here</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Inside Hallow, candidates and catechumens will find a New to Catholicism Collection we've built for them which includes our series created specifically for those going through OCIA, as well as prayers, meditations, and guided sessions to help grow in faith and develop a practice of daily prayer.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Hallow also partners with dioceses, parishes, and schools across the country to build vibrant communities of prayer. Visit <a href="http://hallow.com/parishes">hallow.com/parishes</a> or <a href="http://hallow.com/schools">hallow.com/schools</a> to learn more.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Dioceses may submit or update their data by emailing <a href="mailto:diocesadata@hallow.app">diocesedata@hallow.app</a>. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>About Hallow&nbsp;</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Hallow helps people deepen their relationship with God through audio-guided prayers, sleep meditations, Bible readings, meditations, and music. The app has more than 10,000 sessions including a daily Rosary, daily Gospel, daily Saint, novenas, examens, Fr. Mike Schmitz’s Bible in a Year, The Chosen’s Jonathan Roumie’s audio Bible, Bishop Barron’s Sunday Sermons, peaceful Christian music, Gregorian chant, and so much more. Launched in December 2018, Hallow is now the number one Catholic app in the world with more than 1 billion prayers completed across 150-plus countries and more than 30 million downloads.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-media-contact"><strong>Media Contact</strong></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">press@hallow.app</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> [post_title] => Catholic Church Sees Massive Growth in New Members in 2026 [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => catholic-church-sees-massive-growth-in-new-members [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2026-04-07 12:02:40 [post_modified_gmt] => 2026-04-07 12:02:40 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=110388 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 17160 [post_author] => 32 [post_date] => 2026-02-09 03:32:00 [post_date_gmt] => 2026-02-09 03:32:00 [post_content] => <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-table-of-contents-things-to-give-up-for-lent"><strong>Table of Contents</strong>: Things to Give Up for Lent</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#intro">Introduction</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#prayer-fasting-almsgiving">Lent's 3 Pillars: Prayer, Fasting and Almsgiving</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#kids-fasting">Fasting Ideas for Kids/Teens</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#adult-fasting">Fasting Ideas for Adults</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#kids-prayers">Prayer Ideas for Kids/Teens</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#adult-prayers">Prayer Ideas for Adults</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#almsgiving-ideas">Almsgiving/Donation Ideas for Kids and Adults</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#catholic-charities">Catholic-Affiliated Charities</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p id="intro" class="">When <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/ash-wednesday/">Ash Wednesday</a> draws near, Catholics and other Christians seem to fall into two distinct groups when it comes to what to give up for <a href="https://hallow.com/lent/">Lent</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The first group takes it down to the wire: Tuesday night, continuing an internal dialogue trying to figure out what Lenten sacrifice to make. It’s a conversation they have every year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">And it may includes lines you’ve said yourself in past years:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">“I never know what to give up for Lent!”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The second group is dialed in on the start of Lent, ready to activate “Lent autopilot” and prepare to give up the same thing as last year. And two years ago. And <em>every</em> year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Lent is more than just “giving something up” and <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/lent-fasting-rules/">fasting</a> from meat on Fridays.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":"lent-embed"} --> <p class="lent-embed">In fact, Pope Francis challenges us to think about fasting as something more powerful than we normally consider it, <a href="https://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/en/bollettino/pubblico/2019/02/26/190226d.html">describing it</a> as “learning to change our attitude towards others and all of creation, turning away from the temptation to ‘devour’ everything to satisfy our voracity and being ready to suffer for love, which can fill the emptiness of our hearts.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">How often do we get caught up in our own wants and needs, lose sight of the heart of the matter, and fail to embrace the true meaning of our lives in this world! Lent is a time of truth, a time to drop the masks we put on each day to appear perfect in the eyes of the world.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --><cite><a href="https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/homilies/2023/documents/20230222-omelia-ceneri.html">Pope Francis - Ash Wednesday homily in 2023</a></cite></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">However, Lent can be an unhealthy time for those who struggle with scrupulosity, or it can be overwhelming to people who are already in a time of suffering. For some, the best Lent might be to make sure they get at least 7 hours of sleep or making the commitment to attend therapy.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">At the start of Lent, we should ask ourselves - what pulls me away from loving God, loving others, and loving myself well? How can I incorporate acts of sacrifice, acts of giving, and acts of prayer that will help me love as God loves?</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Giving thought to observing Lent is important. Whether you wait until the last minute to decide or you’ve known your Lenten sacrifice since <em>last</em> Lent, it’s worth spending time to thoughtfully consider how to make the most of your experience this year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Because observing Lent is so much bigger than what you “give up.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center","orientation":"horizontal"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/whattogiveupforlent">Commit to Prayer this Lent. Start Praying with Hallow.</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="prayer-fasting-almsgiving">Lent’s 3 Pillars: Prayer, Fasting, Almsgiving</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">When we hunger–whether it be for food, technology, comfort–it can be a reminder that Jesus is the bread of life.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --><cite>John 6:35</cite></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">When we sacrifice things that this world tells us we need, it can remind us that only God can truly satisfy our spiritual hunger.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Lent’s three pillars are prayer, fasting and almsgiving–meaning that we’re called to do more than just abstain from a particular food or activity.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">It involves not only what we’re willing to give up, but what we’re willing to take on.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">When we think about what to give up for Lent, we ought to also think about what sort of commitment to prayer and ability to be charitable that we can hold ourselves.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Hallow provides numerous options for stepping up prayer during Lent. In the app, Hallow offers:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Daily Gospel reflections</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Daily Rosary prayers</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Daily Saint prayers</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-night-prayer/">Night Prayer</a> from Liturgy of the Hours</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">All of these options can help us commit to prayer during Lent.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In addition to fasting and prayer, almsgiving is equally important during Lent, helping us deepen our relationship with God while working to build God’s kingdom here on earth.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Pope Francis sums up the powerful impact that almsgiving has:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">"Charitable giving makes us more human, whereas hoarding risks making us less human, imprisoned by our own selfishness" </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --><cite><a href="https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/messages/lent/documents/papa-francesco_20191007_messaggio-quaresima2020.html">Pope Francis, Lent Message 2020</a></cite></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Anyone can practice almsgiving, which is not limited to simply donating money.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Rather, practicing almsgiving can also mean donating one’s time in service, perhaps volunteering or serving those in need. Jesus tells us clearly in Matthew 25:40 that in serving those in need, we are serving him.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">As Fr. Gustavo Gutierrez recognizes, there are unique spiritual gifts to directly encountering Christ in those around us in need that we can’t experience by simply making a donation from afar.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">“So you say you love the poor? Name them.” - Fr. Gustavo Gutierrez</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ideas for What to Give Up for Lent</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">With the three pillars of Lent in mind, Hallow has suggestions for meaningful ways to observe Lent in 2026.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Lent Fasting Ideas</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p id="kids-fasting" class=""><strong>Kids / Teen Fasting Ideas </strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Give up a favorite toy or game&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Fast from social media for a day</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Give up a favorite snack</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Drink only water at school&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Give up a favorite chair at home or seat at school</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Go without headphones/air pods for a day</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Play your favorite game, focusing on helping others instead of winning</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Allow others to pass in front of you in the lunch line&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p id="adult-fasting" class=""><strong>General Ideas for Lenten Sacrifices</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Give up coffee (or only brew it at home)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Give up alcohol</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Give up certain social media sites, or limited them to certain days/time of day</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Give up electronics after a certain time in the day (i.e., no screens after 8 p.m.)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Sleep without a pillow</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Wake up without hitting the snooze button</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Shower without hot (with only lukewarm) water</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Keep the thermostat several degrees cooler&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Park in the back of the parking lot and say a prayer as you walk to the grocery store</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Abstain from reading gossip/rumor sites&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Lent Prayer Ideas</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p id="kids-prayers" class=""><strong>Kids/Teen Prayer Ideas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Pray on the way to school</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Play Guess the Saint each day</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Pick a relative each day and pray for that person&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Call a grandparent after church and discuss the Gospel/homily</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Go to bed five minutes early and spend extra time talking with God&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Research the name of your church and learn about its origins</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Pay special attention to the intercessions at Mass and choose one to pray for during the week</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Explore <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-with-kids/">Hallow Kids</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Go to confession</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Research organizations that support Catholic youth like <a href="https://lifeteen.com/">LifeTeen</a> and <a href="https://nfcym.org/">National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p id="adult-prayers" class=""><strong>Adult Prayer Ideas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Subscribe to a daily prayer newsletter (<a href="http://faith.nd.edu/s/1210/faith/interior.aspx?pgid=9441&amp;gid=609&amp;cid=21893">Notre Dame</a> and the <a href="https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/tNwi9GA">Jesuits</a> both offer good options)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Each morning, scroll through the contacts on your phone. Randomly stop and say a prayer for whichever person you land on</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Spend a few minutes with Scripture each day&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Start the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/bible-in-a-year-with-father-mike-schmitz/">Bible in Year podcast</a> with Fr. Mike Schmitz on Hallow</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Attend daily Mass once a week</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Attend or pray the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-stations-of-the-cross/">Stations of the Cross</a> every Friday&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Invite a friend to attend Mass with you&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Join the Bible study group at church</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Attend Adoration of the Eucharist</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Go to confession</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Pray the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-rosary/">Rosary</a> once a day</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Pray the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-examen/">Daily Examen</a> on Hallow</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Join Hallow’s <a href="https://hallow.com/pray40/">#Pray40 Lent Challenge</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="almsgiving-ideas">Lent Almsgiving/Charity/Donation Ideas</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Kids/Teens/General Almsgiving Ideas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Spend time volunteering as a family</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Allow kids to be the one to place money in the basket during the offertory at Mass</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Introduce children to a charity and explain to them how and why to donate to it&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Have children identify a toy they are willing to donate to Goodwill</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Help children identify an article of clothing they can donate and explain that their donation can be a blessing to someone in need</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Create a jar to collect change to donate</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Donate food to a food bank</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Donate a service (free homework tutoring, free professional assistance, etc)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Give a smile to someone you pass who may be living on the street (instead of ignoring them)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Follow new charities on social media and engage with their posts&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Support a business that advertises in your parish bulletin&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="catholic-charities">Catholic-Affiliated Charities to Consider Donating to</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong><a href="https://crosscatholic.org/">Cross Catholic</a></strong> - Supports clean water initiatives in some of Africa’s poorest communities.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong><a href="https://www.catholicextension.org/">Catholic Extension</a></strong> - Works in solidarity with people in America’s poorest regions to build up strong Catholic faith communities.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong><a href="https://www.crs.org/">Catholic Relief Services</a></strong> - Carries out the commitment of the Bishops of the United States to assist the poor and vulnerable overseas.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="http://www.gabrielproject.org/"><strong>Gabriel Project</strong> </a>- Offers hope and assistance to any woman experiencing a crisis pregnancy.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong><a href="https://www.ncea.org/">National Catholic Educational Association</a></strong> - Strengthens Catholic school leaders and educators to help support the future of Catholic education.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong><a href="https://www.marysmeals.org/">Mary’s Meals</a></strong> - Provides meals to children in poverty, in recognition of Mary raising Jesus in poverty.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong><a href="https://www.kofc.org/en//index.html">Knights of Columbus</a></strong> - Fraternal service order of Catholic men that has been active since 1882.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong><a href="https://www.youngcatholicprofessionals.org/cpages/home">Young Catholic Professionals</a></strong> - Inspires and empowers young professional Catholics to work in witness for Christ.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center","orientation":"horizontal"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/whattogiveupforlent">Pray with Hallow on Lent</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>MORE:</strong> <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/lent-prayers/">Lent Prayers for 2026</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> [post_title] => What to Give Up For Lent in 2026: Practical Fasting Ideas for Lent [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => what-to-give-up-for-lent [to_ping] => [pinged] => https://hallow.com/2022/02/06/ash-wednesday/ https://hallow.com/2020/03/17/how-to-pray-stations-of-the-cross/ https://hallow.com/2020/05/20/how-to-pray-with-kids/ [post_modified] => 2026-02-10 16:59:54 [post_modified_gmt] => 2026-02-10 16:59:54 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=17160 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 31186 [post_author] => 32 [post_date] => 2026-02-09 01:53:00 [post_date_gmt] => 2026-02-09 01:53:00 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Along with prayer and almsgiving, fasting is one of the three pillars of <a href="https://hallow.com/lent/">Lent</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In a <a href="https://www.vatican.va/content/benedict-xvi/en/messages/lent/documents/hf_ben-xvi_mes_20071030_lent-2008.html">message for Lent in 2008</a>, Pope Benedict XVI described these as “specific tasks that accompany the faithful concretely in this process of interior renewal.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">A decade earlier, <a href="https://hallow.com/saints/john-paul-ii/">St. (Pope) John Paul II</a> described Lent as a “commitment to a new life, inspired by Gospel values,” moving away from selfishness and drawing closer to the path Christ.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":"lent-embed"} --> <p class="lent-embed">That path, according to Pope John Paul II, can be summarized in the words of prayer, fasting and almsgiving, with fasting consisting of moderation in food and lifestyle as “a sincere effort to remove from our hearts all that is the result of sin and inclines us to evil.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The 2026 Lenten season is the first for Pope Leo XIV; he's already shown a penchant for fasting, <a href="https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2025-08/pope-calls-for-day-of-prayer-and-fasting-for-peace.html">calling for a day of fasting and prayer in August 2025</a> for all those who suffer from war.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Prayer and almsgiving may be easier to fully grasp than fasting, for which the Church has provided specific rules and guidelines to help shape our Lenten journey towards renewal. In 2026, Hallow’s <a href="https://hallow.com/pray40/">Pray40</a> Lent prayer challenge focuses on prayer, fasting and almsgiving.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Here’s an overview of common questions about Lent fasting rules to guide your observance in 2026.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lent-fasting-rules-frequently-asked-questions">Lent Fasting Rules: Frequently Asked Questions</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:yoast/faq-block {"questions":[{"id":"faq-question-1675558433476","question":["What Is Fasting?"],"answer":["In the Catholic Church, fasting is a practice in self-discipline with a penitential focus. In the context of Lent, it refers to reducing food intake and limiting how many meals we have."],"jsonQuestion":"What Is Fasting?","jsonAnswer":"In the Catholic Church, fasting is a practice in self-discipline with a penitential focus. In the context of Lent, it refers to reducing food intake and limiting how many meals we have."},{"id":"faq-question-1675558441583","question":["What are the Lent fasting rules?"],"answer":["On ",{"type":"a","props":{"href":"https://hallow.com/blog/ash-wednesday/","children":["Ash Wednesday"]}}," and ",{"type":"a","props":{"href":"https://hallow.com/blog/good-friday-the-passion-of-christ/","children":["Good Friday"]}},", fasting rules allow Catholics to eat only one full meal and two smaller meals which, combined, would not equal a single normal meal. Additionally, Catholics may not eat meat on these two days–or on any Friday during Lent."],"jsonQuestion":"What are the Lent fasting rules?","jsonAnswer":"On \u003ca href=\u0022https://hallow.com/blog/ash-wednesday/\u0022\u003eAsh Wednesday\u003c/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\u0022https://hallow.com/blog/good-friday-the-passion-of-christ/\u0022\u003eGood Friday\u003c/a\u003e, fasting rules allow Catholics to eat only one full meal and two smaller meals which, combined, would not equal a single normal meal. Additionally, Catholics may not eat meat on these two days–or on any Friday during Lent."},{"id":"faq-question-1675558449152","question":["What are the Lent rules on abstinence?"],"answer":["In this context, abstinence refers to “abstaining” from meat on Fridays during Lent. Whereas Catholics fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday with just one large meal, Catholics must refrain from eating meat on other Fridays, though they can have three full meals."],"jsonQuestion":"What are the Lent rules on abstinence?","jsonAnswer":"In this context, abstinence refers to “abstaining” from meat on Fridays during Lent. Whereas Catholics fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday with just one large meal, Catholics must refrain from eating meat on other Fridays, though they can have three full meals."},{"id":"faq-question-1675558459616","question":["At what age do you start fasting for Lent?"],"answer":["Those ages 18-59, in reasonable health, are required to fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. Those 14 and older must abstain from meat on Fridays during Lent. Canon Law does mention that for young children not fasting, parents should still communicate the meaning and penance."],"jsonQuestion":"At what age do you start fasting for Lent?","jsonAnswer":"Those ages 18-59, in reasonable health, are required to fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. Those 14 and older must abstain from meat on Fridays during Lent. Canon Law does mention that for young children not fasting, parents should still communicate the meaning and penance."},{"id":"faq-question-1675558478338","question":["Who is exempt from fasting during Lent?"],"answer":["Children, adults with physical and mental illness, pregnant women and those nursing are all exempt. The USCCB stresses that “common sense should prevail” and that no one should jeopardize their health to fast."],"jsonQuestion":"Who is exempt from fasting during Lent?","jsonAnswer":"Children, adults with physical and mental illness, pregnant women and those nursing are all exempt. The USCCB stresses that “common sense should prevail” and that no one should jeopardize their health to fast."},{"id":"faq-question-1675558495217","question":["When is fasting over?"],"answer":["Lent ends on Holy Thursday, but Lenten fasting (and personal commitments) usually continues until Easter. Papal document ",{"type":"a","props":{"href":"https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/library/preparation-and-celebration-of-the-easter-feasts-2169","children":["Paschalis Solemnitatis"]}}," recommends this in order that we “with uplifted and welcoming heart be ready to celebrate the joys of the Sunday of the resurrection.”"],"jsonQuestion":"When is fasting over?","jsonAnswer":"Lent ends on Holy Thursday, but Lenten fasting (and personal commitments) usually continues until Easter. Papal document \u003ca href=\u0022https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/library/preparation-and-celebration-of-the-easter-feasts-2169\u0022\u003ePaschalis Solemnitatis\u003c/a\u003e recommends this in order that we “with uplifted and welcoming heart be ready to celebrate the joys of the Sunday of the resurrection.”"},{"id":"faq-question-1675558511688","question":["Can you eat meat on Good Friday?"],"answer":["On the one hand, Good Friday is part of the ",{"type":"a","props":{"href":"https://hallow.com/blog/holy-week-schedule/","children":["Easter Triduum"]}},", which marks the end of Lent. However, since Good Friday itself is a day of abstinence, it’s best to abstain from meat, as in the Fridays of Lent. "],"jsonQuestion":"Can you eat meat on Good Friday?","jsonAnswer":"On the one hand, Good Friday is part of the \u003ca href=\u0022https://hallow.com/blog/holy-week-schedule/\u0022\u003eEaster Triduum\u003c/a\u003e, which marks the end of Lent. However, since Good Friday itself is a day of abstinence, it’s best to abstain from meat, as in the Fridays of Lent. "},{"id":"faq-question-1675558535376","question":["Do Sundays count for fasting?"],"answer":["It’s been a custom for Catholics to give something up during Lent, in addition to the fastings and abstinence rules. Some keep their sacrifice continuously, but Sundays during Lent are not “prescribed days of fasting and abstinence.” Ultimately, it’s a personal decision."],"jsonQuestion":"Do Sundays count for fasting?","jsonAnswer":"It’s been a custom for Catholics to give something up during Lent, in addition to the fastings and abstinence rules. Some keep their sacrifice continuously, but Sundays during Lent are not “prescribed days of fasting and abstinence.” Ultimately, it’s a personal decision."},{"id":"faq-question-1675558558032","question":["Are fish frys OK?"],"answer":["Since serves fish instead of meat, your local church fish fry is a fine option for Fridays during Lent. Because the Lent season is one rooted in penance, a modest meal at your parish is probably a better option than a lavish seafood feast at a fine restaurant. "],"jsonQuestion":"Are fish frys OK?","jsonAnswer":"Since serves fish instead of meat, your local church fish fry is a fine option for Fridays during Lent. Because the Lent season is one rooted in penance, a modest meal at your parish is probably a better option than a lavish seafood feast at a fine restaurant. "},{"id":"faq-question-1675558576655","question":["Does “abstinence” apply to sex? Do Catholics need to abstain from sex during Lent?"],"answer":["No. Abstinence refers to food. ",{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}},{"type":"a","props":{"href":"https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1995-02-25-me-35840-story.html","children":["Some parish birth records"]}}," from the Middle Ages show that births declined nine months after Lent and rose nine months after Easter, so there may be some historical precedent for the practice."],"jsonQuestion":"Does “abstinence” apply to sex? Do Catholics need to abstain from sex during Lent?","jsonAnswer":"No. Abstinence refers to food. \u003cbr/\u003e\u003cbr/\u003e\u003ca href=\u0022https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1995-02-25-me-35840-story.html\u0022\u003eSome parish birth records\u003c/a\u003e from the Middle Ages show that births declined nine months after Lent and rose nine months after Easter, so there may be some historical precedent for the practice."},{"id":"faq-question-1675558599376","question":["What can you drink on Ash Wednesday? What are the fasting rules around liquids like coffee?"],"answer":["Normal rules around fasting before receiving Communion (abstaining from food an hour before Mass) apply during Lent. Outside of that, there are no specific rules around liquids, so coffee, tea and soda are fine. A smoothie that constitutes a meal would probably count as food."],"jsonQuestion":"What can you drink on Ash Wednesday? What are the fasting rules around liquids like coffee?","jsonAnswer":"Normal rules around fasting before receiving Communion (abstaining from food an hour before Mass) apply during Lent. Outside of that, there are no specific rules around liquids, so coffee, tea and soda are fine. A smoothie that constitutes a meal would probably count as food."},{"id":"faq-question-1675558619663","question":["What are the fasting rules around alcohol? "],"answer":["The Church does not specifically limit alcohol. A person’s personal discretion is best. "],"jsonQuestion":"What are the fasting rules around alcohol? ","jsonAnswer":"The Church does not specifically limit alcohol. A person’s personal discretion is best. "}]} --> <div class="schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block"><div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1675558433476"><strong class="schema-faq-question">What Is Fasting?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">In the Catholic Church, fasting is a practice in self-discipline with a penitential focus. In the context of Lent, it refers to reducing food intake and limiting how many meals we have.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1675558441583"><strong class="schema-faq-question">What are the Lent fasting rules?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">On <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/ash-wednesday/">Ash Wednesday</a> and <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/good-friday-the-passion-of-christ/">Good Friday</a>, fasting rules allow Catholics to eat only one full meal and two smaller meals which, combined, would not equal a single normal meal. Additionally, Catholics may not eat meat on these two days–or on any Friday during Lent.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1675558449152"><strong class="schema-faq-question">What are the Lent rules on abstinence?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">In this context, abstinence refers to “abstaining” from meat on Fridays during Lent. Whereas Catholics fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday with just one large meal, Catholics must refrain from eating meat on other Fridays, though they can have three full meals.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1675558459616"><strong class="schema-faq-question">At what age do you start fasting for Lent?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">Those ages 18-59, in reasonable health, are required to fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. Those 14 and older must abstain from meat on Fridays during Lent. Canon Law does mention that for young children not fasting, parents should still communicate the meaning and penance.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1675558478338"><strong class="schema-faq-question">Who is exempt from fasting during Lent?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">Children, adults with physical and mental illness, pregnant women and those nursing are all exempt. The USCCB stresses that “common sense should prevail” and that no one should jeopardize their health to fast.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1675558495217"><strong class="schema-faq-question">When is fasting over?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">Lent ends on Holy Thursday, but Lenten fasting (and personal commitments) usually continues until Easter. Papal document <a href="https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/library/preparation-and-celebration-of-the-easter-feasts-2169">Paschalis Solemnitatis</a> recommends this in order that we “with uplifted and welcoming heart be ready to celebrate the joys of the Sunday of the resurrection.”</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1675558511688"><strong class="schema-faq-question">Can you eat meat on Good Friday?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">On the one hand, Good Friday is part of the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/holy-week-schedule/">Easter Triduum</a>, which marks the end of Lent. However, since Good Friday itself is a day of abstinence, it’s best to abstain from meat, as in the Fridays of Lent. </p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1675558535376"><strong class="schema-faq-question">Do Sundays count for fasting?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">It’s been a custom for Catholics to give something up during Lent, in addition to the fastings and abstinence rules. Some keep their sacrifice continuously, but Sundays during Lent are not “prescribed days of fasting and abstinence.” Ultimately, it’s a personal decision.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1675558558032"><strong class="schema-faq-question">Are fish frys OK?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">Since serves fish instead of meat, your local church fish fry is a fine option for Fridays during Lent. Because the Lent season is one rooted in penance, a modest meal at your parish is probably a better option than a lavish seafood feast at a fine restaurant. </p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1675558576655"><strong class="schema-faq-question">Does “abstinence” apply to sex? Do Catholics need to abstain from sex during Lent?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">No. Abstinence refers to food. <br/><br/><a href="https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1995-02-25-me-35840-story.html">Some parish birth records</a> from the Middle Ages show that births declined nine months after Lent and rose nine months after Easter, so there may be some historical precedent for the practice.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1675558599376"><strong class="schema-faq-question">What can you drink on Ash Wednesday? What are the fasting rules around liquids like coffee?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">Normal rules around fasting before receiving Communion (abstaining from food an hour before Mass) apply during Lent. Outside of that, there are no specific rules around liquids, so coffee, tea and soda are fine. A smoothie that constitutes a meal would probably count as food.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1675558619663"><strong class="schema-faq-question">What are the fasting rules around alcohol? </strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">The Church does not specifically limit alcohol. A person’s personal discretion is best. </p> </div> </div> <!-- /wp:yoast/faq-block --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/lentfastingrules">Pray and Fast with Hallow this Lent</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-helpful-lent-resources"><strong>More Helpful Lent Resources</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/lent-prayers/">Lent Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/what-to-give-up-for-lent/">What to Give Up for Lent</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/where-to-get-ashes-on-ash-wednesday/">Where to Get Ashes on Ash Wednesday</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-rosary/">How to Pray the Rosary</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/holy-week-schedule/">Holy Week Guide</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> [post_title] => Lent Fasting Rules: Catholic Rules for Fasting During Lent in 2026 [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => lent-fasting-rules [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2026-02-10 16:57:00 [post_modified_gmt] => 2026-02-10 16:57:00 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=31186 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11136 [post_author] => 18 [post_date] => 2026-02-02 06:08:00 [post_date_gmt] => 2026-02-02 06:08:00 [post_content] => <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ash-wednesday-2026-the-start-of-the-lenten-season">Ash Wednesday 2026: The start of the Lenten season</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><span style="font-size: revert; color: initial;">Lent comes providentially to reawaken us, to shake us from our lethargy.</span></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --><cite><a href="https://catholicherald.co.uk/lent-comes-to-reawaken-us-pope-francis/">Pope Francis</a></cite></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Table of Contents</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#definition">What is Ash Wednesday? </a><!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Origin</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Is Ash Wednesday a Holy Day of Obligation? </li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Do I need to be Catholic to receive ashes?</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#date">When is Ash Wednesday in 2026?</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#importance">Why is Ash Wednesday important? </a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#receiving-ashes">Receiving ashes on Ash Wednesday</a><!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Where do the ashes come from? </li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Where do the ashes go? </li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>What do the ashes symbolize?</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Where to get ashes near you</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#fasting-rules">Fasting on Ash Wednesday</a><!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Why do Catholics fast on Ash Wednesday? </li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Age requirement </li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Meals</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#prayers">Ash Wednesday Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#observance">How else can I observe Ash Wednesday? </a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="definition">What is Ash Wednesday?</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In 2026, like in every year, Ash Wednesday is the first day of the liturgical season of <a href="https://hallow.com/lent/">Lent</a>. It always falls six and half weeks before Easter, beginning the Lenten season of preparation for Christ’s Resurrection on Easter Sunday.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Ash Wednesday in 2026 will mark the first Lent during the pontificate of Pope Leo XIV, following the death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday in 2025. Francis' health was already declining during Ash Wednesday in 2025, as he did not lead any liturgies (or participate in the distribution of ashes) last year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Pope Leo XIV is expected to participate fully in Ash Wednesday and other Lenten services in 2026.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Origin </h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Ash Wednesday <a href="https://www.vaticannews.va/en/church/news/2018-02/ash-wednesday-commentary.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dates</a> back to the 11th century. Yet, the tradition of receiving ashes has even earlier roots — to the ancient Hebrew custom of clothing oneself in sackcloth and dusting oneself with ashes as a sign of penance. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center","orientation":"horizontal"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/ashwednesdayblog">Begin Lent with Hallow</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Bible does not explicitly detail this first day of Lent, but there are many instances of this repentant act in the Old Testament, such as <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Job+16%3A15&amp;version=NRSVCE" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Job 16:15</a>, </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">I have sewed sackcloth upon my skin,<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;and have laid my strength in the dust.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --><cite><p><em>Job 16:15</em></p></cite></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">and the New Testament, such as <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+10%3A13&amp;version=NRSVCE" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Luke 10:13</a>:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the deeds of power done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --><cite><meta charset="utf-8">Luke 10:13</cite></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Across many religious traditions, ashes signify the mortality of our human bodies. Genesis 3:19 tells us, </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:pullquote --> <figure class="wp-block-pullquote"><blockquote><p>By the sweat of your face<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;you shall eat bread<br>until you return to the ground,<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;for out of it you were taken;<br>you are dust,<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;and to dust you shall return.</p><cite>Genesis 3:19</cite></blockquote></figure> <!-- /wp:pullquote --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":"lent-embed"} --> <p class="lent-embed">In the early Christian Church, public <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-go-to-confession-the-sacrament-of-penance-reconciliation/">penance</a> for people who had sinned including wearing ashes and sackcloth. As the Church grew and evolved, this practice lessened. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">This long tradition — of externally recognizing ourselves as sinners seeking <meta charset="utf-8"><a href="http://faith.nd.edu/s/1210/faith/interior.aspx?sid=1210&amp;gid=609&amp;calcid=53508&amp;calpgid=61&amp;pgid=13299&amp;crid=0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">renewal</a> with God — ultimately transformed into what we now know as Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-ash-wednesday-a-catholic-holy-day-of-obligation-in-2026">Is Ash Wednesday a Catholic Holy Day of Obligation in 2026?</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Ash Wednesday is <em>not</em> a <a href="https://www.usccb.org/beliefs-and-teachings/what-we-believe/canon-law/complementary-norms/canon-1246" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Holy Day of Obligation</a> for Roman Catholics, yet receiving ashes is a universal practice among Christians to begin their Lenten journeys. Most Catholic parishes offer Ash Wednesday Mass, and in some places, it is possible to receive ashes without attending Mass. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Do I need to be Catholic to receive ashes?</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p id="date" class="">You do not need to be Catholic to receive ashes on Ash Wednesday. Several other traditions within Christianity also share this act of repentance. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-is-ash-wednesday-in-2026">When is Ash Wednesday in 2026?</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p id="importance" class="">This year, Ash Wednesday falls on February 18, 2026. <strong>SEE MORE:</strong> <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/when-is-lent/">When is Lent in 2026?</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why is Ash Wednesday important? </h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">As the first day of Lent, Ash Wednesday awakens us to Jesus’ entry into the desert preceding his death. Before Easter, however, we must prepare our hearts for his Resurrection. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p id="receiving-ashes" class="">We begin our season of preparing our hearts for Easter by recognizing our brokenness and need for <a href="http://faith.nd.edu/s/1210/faith/interior.aspx?sid=1210&amp;gid=609&amp;calcid=53508&amp;calpgid=61&amp;pgid=13299&amp;crid=0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conversion, </a>a turning of our hearts to God. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Receiving ashes on Ash Wednesday</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:image {"id":11185,"width":"675px","height":"482px","sizeSlug":"full","linkDestination":"none","align":"center","className":""} --> <figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/photo-1589395937646-cc70671eca60.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-11185" style="width:675px;height:482px"/></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Where do the ashes come from?</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/palm-sunday/">Palm Sunday</a> is the Sunday before Easter. It symbolizes Christ’s return to Jerusalem after spending 40 days in the desert. In the Catholic tradition, we receive palm leaves, which have been blessed, to hold onto during Mass and bring home. The leftover palms from Palm Sunday are then burned and saved for the next Lenten season. So, this year’s ashes are from the palms of Palm Sunday of 2025.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Where do the ashes go?</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">It is typical to receive ashes on your forehead in the Sign of the Cross. Similar to taking communion at Mass, you usually process toward the altar to get ashes. The priest will make the Sign of the Cross and say one of two things:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>“Remember that you are dust, and unto dust you shall return."</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>"Repent, and believe in the Gospel."</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">What do the ashes symbolize?</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The ashes symbolize our mortality. They are a physical reminder that our bodies will decay, but our souls will live on in eternal life. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Fr. Antony Kadavil further <a href="https://www.vaticannews.va/en/church/news/2018-02/ash-wednesday-commentary.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reflects</a> on the symbol of the cross of ashes on our foreheads, </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote" id="fasting-rules"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The cross of ashes means that we are making a commitment – that we are undertaking Lent as a season of prayer and penitence, of dying to ourselves. It also describes our human condition: it says that we are broken and need repair; that we are sinners and need redemption. Most importantly, it tells us that, as followers of Jesus Christ, we are to carry our crosses.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --><cite><meta charset="utf-8">Fr. Antony Kadavil</cite></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Where to get ashes nearby </strong></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Most Catholic churches will expand their liturgical schedule on Ash Wednesday. There are many options for finding ashes on Ash Wednesday.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Hallow has a full breakdown for <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/where-to-get-ashes-on-ash-wednesday/">where to get ashes</a> for Ash Wednesday in 2026, including an interactive map that can help you locate a church to receive ashes from.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center","orientation":"horizontal"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/ashwednesdayblog">Pray more. Find peace. Get Hallow.</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Fasting on Ash Wednesday</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">There are only two obligatory days of fasting and abstinence in the Catholic Church: Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Catholics are also instructed to abstain from meat on each Friday during Lent. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>SEE ALSO:</strong> <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/lent-prayers/">What to Give Up for Lent</a> | <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/lent-fasting-rules/">Lent Fasting Rules</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Why do Catholics fast on Ash Wednesday?</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Fasting is a sign of repentance and helps us embody our spiritual hunger for Christ, who himself fasted in the desert for forty days preceding his death and Resurrection. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Age requirement</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Catholic Church <a href="https://www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/liturgical-year-and-calendar/lent/catholic-information-on-lenten-fast-and-abstinence" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">requires</a> able members from age 18 to 59 to fast on Ash Wednesday. The obligation to abstain from meat applies to those 14 and older. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Meals </h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p id="observance" class="">Fasting allows for one full meal and two smaller meals (that combined do not equal a full meal), with an expectation to abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday. Exemptions are available for those with special physical needs.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p id="prayers" class="">In certain situations, bishops can offer a formal dispensation, allowing Catholics to eat meat. This <a href="https://www.nj.com/coronavirus/2020/03/catholics-can-eat-meat-during-lent-nj-bishop-says-were-sacrificing-enough-for-coronavirus.html">happened</a> in some dioceses during the initial outbreak of Covid-19.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ash Wednesday Prayers</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Ash Wednesday, as the first day of Lent, is a great time to begin a renewed commitment to prayer.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Ash Wednesday prayers can include <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-rosary/">saying the rosary</a>, the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-lectio-divina/">Lectio Divina</a> or beginning with <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/lent-prayers/">Lent prayers</a> for 2026.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">How else can I observe Ash Wednesday?</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In addition to fasting and attending Mass (or a service where ashes are distributed), you can recognize Ash Wednesday through prayer and almsgiving—the other two pillars of Lenten observance.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In prayer, consider listening to the Daily Gospel or engaging in Spiritual Writing to discern what you’d like to focus on in your relationship with Christ this Lent. If you’re not sure where to start, we guide you through both of these prayer methods, in addition to many others, on Hallow.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>Updated on Feb. 4, 2026</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:separator {"opacity":"css"} --> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-css-opacity"/> <!-- /wp:separator --> [post_title] => Ash Wednesday 2026 - The First Day of Lent [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => ash-wednesday [to_ping] => [pinged] => https://hallow.com/2021/02/15/ashtag2021/ https://hallow.com/2019/09/23/how-to-pray-the-rosary/ https://hallow.com/2022/02/05/lent-prayers/ [post_modified] => 2026-02-05 16:31:47 [post_modified_gmt] => 2026-02-05 16:31:47 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=11136 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 30619 [post_author] => 24 [post_date] => 2026-02-01 19:57:00 [post_date_gmt] => 2026-02-01 19:57:00 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Where to Get Ashes: Table of Contents</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Introduction</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#liturgies">Different Ash Wednesday Liturgies</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#right-service-for-you">Finding the Right Service</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#local-parish">Ashes at Catholic Churches and Local Parishes</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#ashes-to-go">Ashes to Go/Drive-by Ashes</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#airport-chapels">Ash Wednesday at Airports</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#college-campuses">Ash Wednesday on College Campuses&nbsp;</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#more-resources">More Ash Wednesday Resources</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/ash-wednesday/">Ash Wednesday</a> remains an extremely popular day within the Church, as many Catholics (and non-Catholics) will receive ashes–perhaps <a href="https://www.americamagazine.org/faith/2022/03/02/ash-wednesday-catholic-242449">even if they don’t regularly make it to Mass</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Even some non-Christians know the words (“Remember that you are dust, and unto dust you shall return”) and recognize the symbol (the dark forehead smudge of black) that mark this first day of <a href="https://hallow.com/lent/">Lent</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">This solemn day “speaks to the existential experience of the human person. All of us are plagued by our choices and our sins,” <a href="https://www.ncregister.com/features/why-is-ash-wednesday-so-popular-and-other-questions-at-the-start-of-lent">according to Father Michael Kapperman</a>, parochial vicar at Sacred Heart Parish.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">To make it easier to participate in Ash Wednesday in 2026, Hallow has assembled this guide exploring where to get ashes whether at home, at college, commuting to work or traveling.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/wheretogetashes">Christians: Pray this Lent with Hallow</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-to-get-ashes-interactive-map">Where to get Ashes: Interactive Map</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">For 2026, Hallow has once again built an interactive map to make it easy to find a Catholic church where you can receive ashes on Ash Wednesday.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Enter your zip code below to find nearby Catholic churches, and consult those church websites for times of liturgies and ash distribution.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <p><iframe src="https://where-to-get-ashes.lovable.app" width="100%" height="600" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"><br /></iframe></p> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ash-wednesday-liturgies">Ash Wednesday Liturgies</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":"lent-embed"} --> <p class="lent-embed">The <a href="https://www.olog.church/uploads/8/8/4/5/8845951/ash_wednesday_liturgy_of_the_word.pdf">Book of Blessings</a>, <a href="https://www.autom.com/product/book-of-blessings-brown-cloth-edition-71810?gclid=Cj0KCQiAiJSeBhCCARIsAHnAzT_nRgvz0N9sESEVMTlc0Ox6kbDgSHD-VTCCvO99xr3jxzLGwlybDioaAl5JEALw_wcB">which contains</a> “blessings of the Roman ritual for the Universal Church as well as additional proper blessings for use in the United States,” outlines general guidelines for Ash Wednesday liturgies.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">It tells us that the “...distribution of ashes on Ash Wednesday typically takes place during the celebration of Mass. However, when circumstances require, the blessing and distribution of ashes may take place apart from Mass, during a celebration of the word of God.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In other words, you usually receive ashes at Mass, but there are other ways that parishes can distribute ashes.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">“Getting ashes” can mean attending Mass, but that’s not&nbsp; always the case.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="right-service-for-you">Finding the Right Ash Wednesday Service</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">At full Ash Wednesday liturgies, Mass takes place mostly as normal, save for the omission of the Penitential Act. The distribution of ashes normally occurs after the homily.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":"lent-embed"} --> <p class="lent-embed">However, since the Book of Blessings allows for ashes to be given outside of a full Mass, there are guidelines for services that deacons or lay people lead.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">These services focus on the Liturgy of the Word and help make getting ashes more accessible since a priest is not required.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">As you look for where to get ashes, be aware of these differences and look for the right service for you. Not every service will be a full Mass.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="local-parish">Catholic Churches Near You - Ashes at Your Local Parish</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The first place to look for a place to receive ashes on Ash Wednesday is your nearest Catholic Church.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">If you’re not familiar with the local Catholic churches, you can always visit the USCCB website, which features a <a href="https://www.usccb.org/about/bishops-and-dioceses/all-dioceses">directory of dioceses around the country</a>. From there, use the map “Parish Finder” feature to locate your nearest Catholic Church and browse its website.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Since Ash Wednesday falls outside the regular weekend liturgy schedule, information on ash distribution may not appear prominently on the site. If you’re having trouble, look for a section of the website that may be called “Resources” or “Bulletin.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Most churches include PDF versions of the paper bulletins they hand out on Sundays. This will also certainly contain the schedule for Ash Wednesday.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Other Christian churches, like those of the Lutherans and Methodist faith traditions, also distribute ashes. <a href="https://www.churchfinder.com/">ChurchFinder</a> may help you locate those options.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Not all distribution of ashes takes place inside of churches. In fact, in some places, local churches bring ashes to busy commuter spots to give ashes to people traveling to or from work.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="ashes-to-go">Where to Get Ashes as a Commuter: “Ashes to Go” and Drive-by Ashes</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Although daily Mass is beautiful and absolutely worth your time, many of us don’t attend Mass regularly on Wednesdays. Ash Wednesday is not a <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/holy-days-of-obligation/">Holy Day of Obligation</a>, and it can be a challenge to figure out where and when to get ashes.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In many cities, local churches will meet people where they are at–literally–in bringing ashes to busy hubs of public transportation.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Ash Wednesday is a time to slow down and reflect. When you receive ashes at a train station or other public, you will not experience a full Mass. You also likely won’t participate in the Liturgy of the Word. But you’ll be able to receive ashes as you head to the office.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Here are some options for receiving ashes in cities around the country:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>New York City - Grand Central Station, Newark Penn Station</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Chicago - Union Station (Great Hall)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Washington, D.C. - Capitol Visitors’ Center (if you happen to be a member of Congress!)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Connecticut - Metro North Wilton Station</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Boston - Boston Common</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Sometimes your “commute” might not involve a train, bus or car. Luckily, there are options to get ashes even if you’re flying on Ash Wednesday.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/wheretogetashes">Get Ashes. Start Praying. Download Hallow Now!</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="airport-chapels">Ash Wednesday While Traveling: Ashes at the Airport</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Traveling can be stressful and exhausting, especially when you’ve got things to do before you depart or when you land.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">At many airports around the country, local priests will distribute ashes at airport chapels and interfaith prayer rooms to allow Catholics and other Christians to receive their ashes while on the go.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Current information regarding airport chapel plans and schedules is hard to come by. However, we’ve compiled a list of airports that have distributed ashes in the past and will likely offer them this year as well. If possible, it’s always best to confirm with your local airport before you travel:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Atlanta Hartsfield - ATL</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Charlotte - CLT - (<a href="https://cltairportchapel.org/">Chapel</a>, third floor, Main Terminal)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Chicago O’Hare - ORD</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Chicago Midway - MDW</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Dallas - DFW <a href="http://www.dfwairportchapel.org/ash-wednesday.html">(Meadows Chapel</a>, Anglican priest)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Denver - DEN (<a href="https://www.flydenver.com/traveler_services/religious-facilities">Interfaith chapel</a>)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Houston Bush - IAH&nbsp; (<a href="https://catholicphilly.com/2017/03/news/national-news/houston-airport-chaplains-bring-ashes-sacraments-to-travelers/">Interfaith Chapel</a>, Terminal C)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Minneapolis - MSP&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>New York LaGuardia - LGA</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Orlando - MCO (Main Terminal <a href="https://www.facebook.com/flyMCO/posts/for-those-interested-father-bob-the-airport-chaplain-will-be-distributing-ashes-/10151278215391625/">in corridor near ArtPort</a>)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Pittsburgh -&nbsp; PIT (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/PITairport/posts/for-those-wishing-to-receive-ashes-on-this-ashwednesday-please-make-your-way-to-/10158511553038933/">Interfaith chapel</a>, mezzanine level, airside)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="college-campuses">Ashes on College Campuses</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Nearly all Catholic (and many Christian) colleges and universities will offer some form of Ash Wednesday service.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">If you’re a college student, consult your school’s campus ministry website or social media account for a schedule of activities planned around Ash Wednesday.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">If you live near a Catholic college, it’s also worth exploring. Sometimes, Ash Wednesday services (and other liturgies) are open to local community members.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="more-resources">More Ash Wednesday Resources</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/what-to-give-up-for-lent/">What to Give Up for Lent</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/pray40/">#Pray40</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/lent-prayers/">Lent Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-rosary/">How to Pray the Rosary</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> [post_title] => Where to Get Ashes for Ash Wednesday in 2026: Ash Wednesday Services, Ashes to Go, Drive-by Ashes and More  [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => where-to-get-ashes-on-ash-wednesday [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2026-02-17 15:51:41 [post_modified_gmt] => 2026-02-17 15:51:41 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=30619 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 105622 [post_author] => 24 [post_date] => 2026-01-29 01:59:30 [post_date_gmt] => 2026-01-29 01:59:30 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">At Hallow, our mission is to help people pray. We believe technology, when used correctly, can be a powerful tool to support that mission.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Hallow AI is designed with that same goal in mind. It is meant to be a helpful tool. It will not replace human faith, discernment, or spiritual guidance. No AI tool can or should do that.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Hallow AI gives people the opportunity to ask questions about faith and Church-related topics to deepen their prayer lives. It also helps folks find prayers within the app that are most relevant to their needs.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">As Pope Leo XIV stated:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>“Faced with cultural changes throughout history, the Church has never remained passive. She has sought to illuminate every age with the light and hope of Christ by discerning good from evil, in what was good from what needed to be changed, transformed, and purified. Today we are in a culture where the technological dimension is present in almost everything, especially as the widespread adoption of artificial intelligence will mark a new era in the lives of individuals and societies as a whole. This is a challenge that we must face, reflecting on the authenticity of our witness, on our ability to listen and speak, and on our capacity to understand and to be understood. We have a duty to work together to develop a way of thinking, to develop a language of our time that gives voice to love. It is not simply a matter of generating content, but of creating an encounter of hearts.”</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">You can also check out some of the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/thoughts-on-ai/">thoughts on AI</a> from our CTO.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-hallow-ai-is-and-what-it-isn-t">What Hallow AI Is and What It Isn’t</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">We view Hallow AI like we do all AI: a tool. And this tool is made to help people make faith more accessible.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Hallow AI can summarize Church teachings, explain different terms or concepts and summarize important Church documents.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">It cannot provide spiritual direction, hear confessions or write prayers.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Hallow is never meant as a replacement for worship. In fact, we want to bring folks who have fallen away back to church and the richness of the sacraments. We are proud that our lowest usage days are Sundays and Saturdays, when people are attending Mass.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Similarly, Hallow AI will never replace the role of a priest, the sacraments or in-person liturgies.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transparency-and-hallow-ai">Transparency and Hallow AI</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:image {"id":105623,"sizeSlug":"full","linkDestination":"none","align":"right","className":""} --> <figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Hallow-AI-Icon.png" alt="" class="wp-image-105623"/></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">We promise to always be transparent. If something in the Hallow app is powered by AI, you’ll know. It’ll be clearly labeled with an “AI” tag or icon.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Everything Hallow AI shares is based on real, trusted Catholic sources: things like the Catechism, the Church Fathers, papal documents, saints’ writings, Scripture, and liturgical texts.You will be able to find the references to these sources in the AI’s response.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hallow-ai-and-privacy">Hallow AI and Privacy</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">We take privacy extremely seriously. It’s one of the reasons why our Privacy Policy is written in plain language, because we want it to be easily understood, not hidden behind legal obfuscation or complexity.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Hallow AI will uphold the same staunch commitment to privacy. We never sell or share your data and your interactions with the AI are held to the same standard of privacy and security as the rest of the app.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-feedback">Feedback</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">This is a new journey for us — and like everything we build, we’re learning as we go. If you try the AI and have feedback, we’d love to hear it. Your experience helps us make Hallow better for everyone.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> [post_title] => Hallow AI [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => hallow-ai [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2026-02-04 21:42:56 [post_modified_gmt] => 2026-02-04 21:42:56 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=105622 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 102723 [post_author] => 5 [post_date] => 2025-12-16 23:55:20 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-12-16 23:55:20 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>“Faced with cultural changes throughout history, the Church has never remained passive. She has sought to illuminate every age with the light and hope of Christ by discerning good from evil, in what was good from what needed to be changed, transformed, and purified. Today we are in a culture where the technological dimension is present in almost everything, especially as the widespread adoption of artificial intelligence will mark a new era in the lives of individuals and societies as a whole. This is a challenge that we must face, reflecting on the authenticity of our witness, on our ability to listen and speak, and on our capacity to understand and to be understood. We have a duty to work together to develop a way of thinking, to develop a language of our time that gives voice to love. It is not simply a matter of generating content, but of creating an encounter of hearts.”&nbsp;</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">- Pope Leo XIV</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Intro</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Hallow’s goal is to play some small role in leading people into an authentic relationship with God – to help people pray, to “create an encounter of hearts,” as Pope Leo said. Our job is to try to use the tools that God has given us to best build up His Kingdom. This includes thinking through and praying about how new technology can be used to further Hallow’s mission. This is a first draft of our philosophy on how we think about AI and plan to use it.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">As Catholics, we’re fortunate to have a rich, deep history of morality and philosophy to draw from as we think about these things. There are many resources out there that can help guide us in how we might think about AI. With that said, the point of this document is not to teach AI ethics. Hallow is simply a group of friends who discovered the beauty of the Church and are trying to share it as best we can. My hope is to learn from the Church’s teaching on this topic and think through how it might apply to us. Please send us feedback. I’m eager to read more and adjust our thinking with new developments. As in all things, we are obedient to the Church and will continue to look to her for guidance.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>1. AI is a tool, not a person.&nbsp;</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">AI must be seen for what it is: a tool, and nothing more. For more than a century, we’ve seen a trend in the corporate world toward valuing people only for the metrics of their output. This is only exacerbated by AI. This type of thinking views humans as mere producers rather than creators - as cogs in the machine rather than persons with souls. At Hallow, we value our people as persons. You are more than the work you create. No one at Hallow will lose their job to AI.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Like any tool, AI can be used for good or for evil. When used correctly, technology should increase the time we spend doing dignifying work. As St. Pope John Paul II wrote, when technology is used correctly, “it facilitates [man’s] work, perfects, accelerates and augments it.” At Hallow, we should aim to use AI in a way that allows us to spend more time on work where we can have the greatest impact – where we are most fulfilled and alive.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>“Between a machine and a human being, only the latter is truly a moral agent—a subject of moral responsibility who exercises freedom in his or her decisions and accepts their consequences. It is not the machine but the human who is in relationship with truth and goodness, guided by a moral conscience that calls the person ‘to love and to do what is good and to avoid evil.’”&nbsp;</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">- Antiqua et Nova</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">There are many things AI cannot do, and will never be able to do. It cannot receive inspiration from God, nor can it discern good from evil. Only humans are “moral agents” and can discern God’s will or discern what work to do in the first place. The responsibility for any choice or work that uses AI is always on the man or woman who chooses to use it.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In today's world, especially in Silicon Valley, we have a tendency to turn AI into more than it is. Some have even likened AI to a new consciousness or a created god. This is nonsense. AI is not an omniscient or divine being, but a set of algorithms around a large amount of data that only mimics human attributes.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Because AI is only a tool, we also have to be careful not to overly rely on it. If we turn to it immediately when any sort of creative or critical thinking is needed, we will start to lose the very qualities that make us human: qualities like creativity, discernment, reason, originality, and moral responsibility. St. John Paul II warned, "technology can cease to be man's ally and become almost his enemy . . . when, through exalting the machine, it reduces man to the status of its slave." Always be discerning when and how you seek to use it.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>2. Hallow content is and will always be created by a person with a soul, not AI.</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">AI does not have a soul – it cannot pray. It cannot have a relationship, administer or receive the sacraments, or provide pastoral guidance. All prayer content on Hallow is and will continue to be created by a human being. With that said, we believe AI can be a powerful tool for Hallow and each of us in our journey.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">A customer support AI chat can instantly answer the most frequently asked questions. A content writer might use AI to find mistakes in grammar so that they have more time to carefully craft a prayer. A developer might use AI to find a bug to free up their time to critically think about a complicated algorithm. All of this is in service of allowing our team to spend more time doing the work that matters most.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">We will never try to pass off the work of AI as the work of a human being. We will not personify AI. We’ll give clear disclaimers on anything, like a text transcription, that is done automatically. Of course, we will continue to ensure, as always, that all of our content on the app is 100% in-line with Church teaching.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>3. We believe, though, that we have an opportunity to use this tool in a way that helps each of us grow closer to God.&nbsp;</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Over the last several years building Hallow we’ve seen firsthand how God can use technology to bring people closer to Him. We believe that He can do the same thing with this new tool, and, though this might be a narrow gate, we have an opportunity to help make it happen.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>“Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and road is easy that leads to destruction, and there are many who take it. The gate is narrow and the road is hard that leads to life, and there are few who find it.” </em>- Matthew 7:13-14</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The way of Christ has always been the narrow gate – hard to walk, yet leading to life. As AI reshapes our world, it will be more often for distraction or destruction, and ultimately for evil. Yet we believe God calls us to this narrow path: to work and pray through how this new technology might draw people toward Him and help each of us live a life of faith and love.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">We must use it to serve the spiritually poor - reaching out especially to the fallen away. We’ve already seen how an AI-powered search tool in the app can help guide people to trusted resources faster than ever before. We must also find ways to use it to help the materially poor, bringing resources to those who might otherwise be unable to access them. When we use AI at Hallow, our final purpose must always align with our mission to help everyone, not just a select few, grow in prayer and love of God.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><strong>Closing thoughts&nbsp;</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The progress on AI is impressive, but it is still only a piece of technology. True progress, however, is not technological – it is moral and spiritual. We shouldn’t mistake more technology for growth. From Pope Francis:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>“Technoscience, when well directed, can produce important means of improving the quality of human life... Yet it must also be recognized that [new technologies] have given us tremendous power… There is a tendency to believe that every increase in power means “an increase of ‘progress’ itself”... as if reality, goodness and truth automatically flow from technological and economic power as such. The fact is that ‘contemporary man has not been trained to use power well’, because our immense technological development has not been accompanied by a development in human responsibility, values and conscience.”&nbsp;</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Using any new technology for good is a narrow path, but we trust that God will help show us the way. Our goal is to help others be transformed by His love. For our use of AI to be effective, it must point others to Christ. For “Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” [John 14:6].&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">This is the lens through which we must see all of our work at Hallow. We are hopeful that AI may be one of the many tools we might use to help us do this work, but in the end, to call back to Pope Leo, “It is not simply a matter of generating content, but of creating an encounter of hearts.” Please pray for us as we try our best to use technology responsibly in service of that mission.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> [post_title] => Thoughts on AI [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => thoughts-on-ai [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-12-19 20:29:12 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-12-19 20:29:12 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=102723 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 95555 [post_author] => 32 [post_date] => 2025-10-21 00:28:18 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-10-21 00:28:18 [post_content] => <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-our-lady-of-schoenstatt">Our Lady of Schoenstatt</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#history">History</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#graces">Three Graces</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#feast-day">Feast Day</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#prayers">Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#home-shrines">Home Shrine</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#faqs">FAQs</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/MEjoEifQVWb">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Our Lady of Schoenstatt is a German-based Marian devotion that began in the early 20th century.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Unlike other Marian devotions, like <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=hallow+our+lady+of+guadalupe&amp;sca_esv=3aa3359d46e30aa6&amp;rlz=1C1VDKB_enUS1060US1060&amp;biw=1920&amp;bih=945&amp;ei=dJz2aJmzPLDawN4Ph4Xp4QE&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiZveDmz7OQAxUwLdAFHYdCOhwQ4dUDCBA&amp;uact=5&amp;oq=hallow+our+lady+of+guadalupe&amp;gs_lp=Egxnd3Mtd2l6LXNlcnAiHGhhbGxvdyBvdXIgbGFkeSBvZiBndWFkYWx1cGUyBBAAGB4yCxAAGIAEGIYDGIoFMgsQABiABBiGAxiKBTILEAAYgAQYhgMYigUyCxAAGIAEGIYDGIoFMgsQABiABBiGAxiKBTIIEAAYogQYiQUyCBAAGIAEGKIEMggQABiiBBiJBTIIEAAYogQYiQVIyQlQ8wFY4whwAXgAkAEAmAF4oAHCBaoBAzYuMrgBA8gBAPgBAZgCB6ACtATCAgsQABiwAxiiBBiJBcICCxAAGIAEGLADGKIEwgIFEAAY7wXCAgYQABgHGB6YAwCIBgGQBgWSBwM2LjGgB7w6sgcDNS4xuAeuBMIHBTAuMS42yAcd&amp;sclient=gws-wiz-serp">Our Lady of Guadalupe</a> or <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/our-lady-of-champion-feast-day-prayers/">Our Lady of Champion</a>, which originated with Marian apparitions, the devotion to Our Lady of Schoenstatt does not stem from a Marian apparition but rather a "covenant of love" (or a <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-marian-consecration/">Marian Consecration</a>) that focuses on a worldwide religious and moral renewal.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Marian Shrine in Schoenstatt <a href="https://schoenstatt-lamar.us/what-is-schoenstatt/">is a pilgrimage place</a> dedicated to Mary under the title "Mother Thrice Admirable, Queen and Victress of Schoenstatt."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Schoenstatt's official website describes Schoenstatt as "A place. A spirituality. A movement. A family. A new way of life."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>The Blessed Virgin Mary, venerated with great love by every member of the Schoenstatt community with the title “Mother Thrice Admirable”, is a fundamental model for all, who leads us to create bridges based on fraternal charity and on the communion of goods with those most in need, and at the same time gives us hope and courage to reach out to those who have drifted away from friendship with the Lord, to recover them with the witness of a new life in Christ, characterized by mercy.</em> - <a href="https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/speeches/2022/september/documents/20220901-padri-schonstatt.html">Pope Francis, Sept. 2022</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="history">The Origins and History of Our Lady of Schoenstatt</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Unlike many centuries-old Marian devotions, Our Lady of Schoenstatt began quite recently. On October 18, 1914, in a small chapel in Schoenstatt, Germany, Father Joseph Kentenich and a small group of Pallottine seminarians established a covenant of love with Mary.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">"Father Kentenich wanted to create a spirituality which would be adaptable to conditions of rapid changes in the modern world," <a href="https://www.schoenstatt.org/en/services/about-schoenstatt/history/">according to Schoenstatt's official site</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">This covenant wasn't just a one-time event but the beginning of a spiritual movement. Fr. Kentenich invited Mary to dwell spiritually in this humble chapel (now known as the "Original Shrine") and to work through it as a place of grace. He asked her to draw hearts to herself and form them into instruments of Christ. The word Schoenstatt means "beautiful place"</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">What makes this devotion unique is that it developed during the challenges of World War I. Fr. Kentenich recognized that modern times required a deeply personal relationship with Mary that could help people navigate the complexities of contemporary life while remaining faithful to Catholic tradition.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Schoenstatt movement has led to the creation of several religious communities, such as the <a href="https://schoenstattsistersofmary.us/">Schoenstatt Sisters of Mary</a> and <a href="https://schoenstatt-fathers.us/">Schoenstatt Fathers</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="graces">The Three Graces of Schoenstatt</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Those who visit Schoenstatt shrines or pray with this devotion often seek three special graces:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>The Grace of Home</strong> - Feeling at home and sheltered by Mary's love</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>The Grace of Inner Transformation</strong> - Self-discovery. Growing in holiness and faith through Mary's guidance</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>The Grace of Apostolic Fruitfulness</strong> - Being inspired to share Christ's love with others</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">“The essence of Schoenstatt is this idea of giving your heart to Mary, and in exchange, she gives herself to you. So you prove your love to her by the things you do. In exchange, she comes and dwells in your midst and forms you into the image of her Son," <a href="https://www.thecatholictelegraph.com/graces-bestowed-at-new-schoenstatt-shrine/670">said Curtis Kneblik</a>, who helped organize and construct the Schoenstatt Wayside Shrine at the Transfiguration Center for Spiritual Renewal in Ludlow Falls, Ohio.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">These graces remind us that prayer isn't just about what we say to God, but how we allow ourselves to be transformed through our relationship with Him and His mother.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="feast-day">Feast Day and Celebration</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Feast of Our Lady of Schoenstatt is celebrated on October 18th, commemorating the founding of the movement in 1914. On this day, devotees worldwide renew their covenant of love with Mary and celebrate the fruits of this spiritual relationship.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Many Schoenstatt communities mark this day with special Masses, processions, and renewal of their personal dedication to Mary. It's a beautiful opportunity to join in <a href="/blog/how-to-pray-novenas/">praying a novena</a> leading up to the feast day, deepening your connection to this devotion.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">If you live near a Schoenstatt center, shrine or community, it's worth joining. After Mass and (often) the sacrament of reconciliation, there is often a small meal to celebrate the feast day.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/MEjoEifQVWb">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="prayers">Our Lady of Schoenstatt Prayers</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">You can offer the consecration prayer when seeking the intercession of Our Lady of Schoenstatt, since drawing closer to Mary (and by extension, Jesus) is at the heart of the Schoenstatt charism:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>"My Queen, my Mother, I give myself entirely to you, and to show my devotion to you, I consecrate to you this day my eyes, my ears, my mouth, my heart, my entire self without reserve. As I am your own, my good Mother, guard me and defend me as your property and possession. Amen."</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">You can also explore prayers written by Fr. Kentenich in his book, <a href="https://schhw.net/en/index.htm">Heavenwards</a>. For example, here is a beautiful prayer he calls "Prayer in the Time of Need": <br><em>Mother, take us caringly beneath your mantle,<br>that we may always live as citizens of heaven.<br>Preserve us from hunger, epidemics and fire;<br>Preserve us who turn to you in time of dire need.<br>Speak to your Son as you once did on earth<br>when he came to our aid in need and distress—<br>“Lord, they have no wine and no food”—<br>then he will certainly hear our prayer.<br>He chose you as the second Eve;<br>you shall save what the first Eve lost.<br>Just as she drew us into ruin,<br>from you stream forth the rays of eternal salvation.<br>It is the Father’s loving plan of wisdom<br>that the earth constantly endure itself as a vale of tears<br>until the sun of transfiguration rises over it in splendor<br>and it mirrors heaven’s blessed harmony.<br>In union with your Son you have been entrusted<br>with giving us the lost life of grace<br>and with protecting us from many earthly sorrows—<br>soothing the pain they cause and transforming them into our salvation.<br>Unfold today the richness of your motherly heart<br>wherever diabolical forces are powerfully at work.<br>Reveal the fullest extent of your might and kindness<br>as the Helpmate of the Lord.<br>Just as your Son healed, stilled hunger<br>and comforted the sick while here on earth,<br>go with him quietly through our midst,<br>giving your blessing and helping us with the arm of your unlimited motherly power.<br>Show yourself to all the world as the Great Sign<br>which neither Satan’s cunning nor earthly sorrow can endure.<br>Let the nations find protection and salvation in you<br>and joyfully proclaim you salvation’s Mediatrix.<br>Our affliction, too, has increased so enormously<br>that without your help we must succumb.<br>You alone can save us from perdition—<br>come and see us gathered around you with our pleas.<br>United with your Son, be the one who rescues us<br>from the fury of hell and the tempests of our times.<br>We want to gratefully and eternally praise you in every way we know<br>as the great Mother of the nations.<br>We want to courageously spread your name<br>and lead all people to your shrine,<br>so that, with you, they jubilantly and lovingly worship the Triune God<br>both here and high in heaven above.<br>Amen.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="home-shrines">Home Shrines: Bringing Schoenstatt Into Daily Life</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">One of the most beautiful aspects of Schoenstatt spirituality is the tradition of creating a "home shrine"—a sacred space in your home dedicated to Our Lady of Schoenstatt. This typically includes an image of Mary and Jesus, perhaps some candles, and flowers.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">It reflects the tremendous spread of the Schoenstatt movement: from the original shrine in Germany, to replica shrines around the world, to new shrines built in private homes.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><a href="https://www.dosp.org/marian-home-shrines-inspire-a-life-of-holiness-and-prayer/">An article</a> by the Diocese of St. Petersburg explores the growth of the home shrine practice within that diocese.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">“When I went to work, I wasn’t happy, I felt empty. But now when I come home, praying together and experiencing so much kindness, it’s like a sanctuary for us,” said one person who constructed a home shrine.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">This home shrine becomes a place where family prayer happens and where Mary's presence is invited into everyday life. It reminds us that holiness isn't just found in churches but can transform our homes and daily routines.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">One Schoenstatt group <a href="https://schoenstattmn.com/Downloads/RoomshrineWorkbook.pdf">created</a> a room shrine dedication guide for setting up a home shrine.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="faqs">Frequently Asked Questions about Our Lady of Schoenstatt</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:yoast/faq-block {"questions":[{"id":"faq-question-1760997518541","question":["What does Schoenstatt mean?"],"answer":["The word \u0022schoenstatt\u0022 means \u0022beautiful place\u0022 in German."],"jsonQuestion":"What does Schoenstatt mean?","jsonAnswer":"The word \u0022schoenstatt\u0022 means \u0022beautiful place\u0022 in German."},{"id":"faq-question-1760997579392","question":["What is Our Lady of Schoenstatt known more?"],"answer":["Our Lady of Schoenstatt is associated with a broad movement seeking to unite hearts to Mary. Our Lady of Schoenstatt also has a famous depiction of Mary with baby Jesus, a version of which you can see at the top of this article.",{"type":"br","props":{"children":[]}}],"jsonQuestion":"What is Our Lady of Schoenstatt known more?","jsonAnswer":"Our Lady of Schoenstatt is associated with a broad movement seeking to unite hearts to Mary. Our Lady of Schoenstatt also has a famous depiction of Mary with baby Jesus, a version of which you can see at the top of this article.\u003cbr/\u003e"},{"id":"faq-question-1760997655674","question":["Where are there shrines to Our Lady of Schoenstatt?"],"answer":["There are Schoenstatt shrines around the world! The Schoenstatt ",{"type":"a","props":{"href":"https://schoenstatt.com/about-schoenstatt/#around-the-world","children":["shrine locator"]}}," suggests there are more than 200 in the world."],"jsonQuestion":"Where are there shrines to Our Lady of Schoenstatt?","jsonAnswer":"There are Schoenstatt shrines around the world! The Schoenstatt \u003ca href=\u0022https://schoenstatt.com/about-schoenstatt/#around-the-world\u0022\u003eshrine locator\u003c/a\u003e suggests there are more than 200 in the world."}]} --> <div class="schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block"><div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1760997518541"><strong class="schema-faq-question">What does Schoenstatt mean?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">The word "schoenstatt" means "beautiful place" in German.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1760997579392"><strong class="schema-faq-question">What is Our Lady of Schoenstatt known more?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">Our Lady of Schoenstatt is associated with a broad movement seeking to unite hearts to Mary. Our Lady of Schoenstatt also has a famous depiction of Mary with baby Jesus, a version of which you can see at the top of this article.<br/></p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1760997655674"><strong class="schema-faq-question">Where are there shrines to Our Lady of Schoenstatt?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">There are Schoenstatt shrines around the world! The Schoenstatt <a href="https://schoenstatt.com/about-schoenstatt/#around-the-world">shrine locator</a> suggests there are more than 200 in the world.</p> </div> </div> <!-- /wp:yoast/faq-block --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-resources">More Resources</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/our-lady-of-fatima/">Our Lady of Fatima History and Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/7-sorrows/">How to Pray the 7 Sorrows Rosary</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-our-lady-of-mount-carmel-novena/">Our Lady of Mt. Carmel</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/pt/collections/390/marriage-novena/">Marriage Novena</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> [post_title] => Our Lady of Schoenstatt: History, Feast Day, Prayers and More [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => our-lady-of-schoenstatt-history-prayers-feast-day [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-10-21 01:20:33 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-10-21 01:20:33 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=95555 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 96513 [post_author] => 32 [post_date] => 2025-10-06 22:34:28 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-10-06 22:34:28 [post_content] => <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-story-of-our-lady-of-champion">The Story of Our Lady of Champion</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Our Lady of Champion, also known as Our Lady of Good Help, is the only approved Marian apparition site in the United States. The name "Champion" refers to the location of the apparition: Champion, Wis. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The shring to Our Lady of Champion is now a popular pilgrimage site hosting <a href="https://medium.com/catholic-way-home/the-first-u-s-apparition-approved-by-the-church-our-lady-of-champion-in-wisconsin-c5f12c7c0170">around 200,000 visitors every year</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Our Lady of Champion's Feast Day is October 9 and her story can inspire your prayer life.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/Q2dm2429dXb">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-our-lady-of-champion-apparition-and-adele-brise">Our Lady of Champion Apparition and Adele Brise</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In October 1859, the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared several times to a young Belgian immigrant named Adele Brise. While walking through the woods to a mill, Adele saw a lady dressed in dazzling white standing between two trees. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">After seeking guidance from her parish priest, Adele returned to the spot where Mary appeared to her again, introducing herself <a href="https://proclaim.dioceseaj.org/the-message-of-our-lady-of-champion-wisconsin/">saying</a> "I am the Queen of Heaven, who prays for the conversion of sinners, and I wish you to do the same."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Mary <a href="https://championshrine.org/educational-resources/">gave Adele a mission</a>: "Gather the children in this wild country and teach them what they should know for salvation." </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">This simple request to catechize the local children became Adele's lifelong mission. She "<a href="https://www.usccb.org/news/2024/us-bishops-affirm-advancement-cause-beatification-and-canonization-adele-brise-lay-woman">began a door-to-door ministry, eventually founding a community of laywomen known as the Sisters of Good Help.</a>" She traveled up to <a href="https://adelebrice.org/about-adele/">25 miles a day</a> and eventually led the construction of a school house for children.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In 1871, a Peshtigo Fire, the <a href="https://www.weather.gov/grb/peshtigofire">most devastating forest fire</a> in American history, raged throughout Wisconsin and threatened the chapel that marked the spot of Mary's apparition. Adele stayed in the chapel <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-rosary/">praying the rosary</a> throught the night with some of the locals. The next morning, on Oct. 9, the anniversary of Mary's apparition, the fire was extinguished.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Adele, who wore a habit and lived as a nun but never formally professed vows, continued her mission until her death in 1896. In 2024, the U.S. Bishops <a href="https://www.usccb.org/news/2024/us-bishops-affirm-advancement-cause-beatification-and-canonization-adele-brise-lay-woman">advanced the cause</a> of her beatification and canonization at the diocesan level.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/Q2dm2429dXb">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-our-lady-of-champion-an-inspiration">Our Lady of Champion - an Inspiration</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Our Lady of Champion reminds us of an essential element of our faith: she continues to intercede for us and guide us toward her Son. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The simplicity of her message to Adele--to teach children about Jesus--resonates today and reminds us of our call to be catechists and to model to, and share our faith with, children.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">When we feel overwhelmed by life's challenges, we can find comfort in knowing that the same Blessed Mother who appeared in those Wisconsin woods continues to walk with us today. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">She remains an intercessor <a href="https://x.com/JulianneStanz/status/1877374667519832553">particularly close</a> to those battling wildfires that have all too commonly raged in the United States.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Our Lady of Champion was the official patroness of one pilgrimage route heading to the 2024 National Eucharistic Congress, meaning that many Americans learned more about the Marian apparition that, while not as famous as Guadalupe or Fatima, took place in their own backyard.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The first major painting <a href="https://www.ncregister.com/features/new-our-lady-of-champion-painting-at-nec">was commissioned</a> for the occasion, and its beauty will no doubt inspire the prayer lives of many othere:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:html --> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Is it done? Can&#39;t seem to stop tweaking little details of Our Lady of Champion. <a href="https://t.co/KSy3btjDsx">pic.twitter.com/KSy3btjDsx</a></p>&mdash; Gwyneth Thompson-Briggs (@GTBsacredart) <a href="https://twitter.com/GTBsacredart/status/1786155878954987979?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> <!-- /wp:html --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prayer-to-our-lady-of-champion">Prayer to Our Lady of Champion</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Most Reverend David L. Ricken, Bishop of the Diocese of Green Bay, has <a href="https://championshrine.org/prayer-to-our-lady-of-champion/">offered</a> this prayer to our Lady of Champion:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>O Dear Lady of Champion, you revealed yourself as the Queen of Heaven to your servant Adele. You gave her a mission to pray for the conversion of sinners, to bring the Good News of Jesus Christ to others and to prepare the children for the reception of the sacraments.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>I trust that as you called Adele to holiness, you are calling me, in my station in life, to live a holy life, devoted to Jesus Christ with the help of your maternal love.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>I bring before you now my worries and anxieties. I abandon my attachments to them and place them at your feet. I ask you to hear the deepest longings of my heart as I pray most earnestly for: (your intention).</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>Dear Lady, you told Adele and you say to all of us “Do not be afraid; I will help you.” Help me now as I place this intention with complete confidence and trust.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be<br>Our Lady of Champion, pray for us.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/Q2dm2429dXb">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-our-lady-of-champion-feast-day">Our Lady of Champion Feast Day</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The feast of Our Lady of Champion is celebrated on October 9, two days after the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In the Diocese of Green Bay, where Our Lady of Champion is located, <a href="https://championshrine.org/oloc-solemnity/">elevated</a> the day to a solemnity for the National Shrine.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">At the shrine on the feast day, Masses are celebrated, rosaries are prayed, confession, benediction and adoration throughout the day.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-our-lady-of-champion-in-your-daily-life">Our Lady of Champion in Your Daily Life</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">You don't need to make a pilgrimage to Wisconsin to develop a meaningful connection to Our Lady of Champion. Here are some simple ways to incorporate this beautiful devotion into your daily prayer life:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Daily Consecration:</strong> Begin each day by entrusting yourself to Mary's maternal protection, just as those who sought refuge at the shrine during the fire. </li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Pray the Rosary:</strong> The <a href="/blog/how-to-pray-the-rosary/">rosary</a> is a powerful way to meditate on the life of Christ with Mary as our guide. Even a decade a day can transform your prayer life.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Learn and Teach:</strong> Consider volunteering as a catechist at your church, or simply commit to learning more about your faith in order to share with others.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Adele Brice:</strong> <a href="https://adelebrice.org/about-adele/">Learn more</a> about Adele Brice and her cause for sainthood.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-common-questions-about-our-lady-of-champion">Common Questions About Our Lady of Champion</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:yoast/faq-block {"questions":[{"id":"faq-question-1759785962408","question":["Is Our Lady of Champion the same as Our Lady of Good Help?"],"answer":["Yes! Our Lady of Champion is less commonly known as Our Lady of Good Help."],"jsonQuestion":"Is Our Lady of Champion the same as Our Lady of Good Help?","jsonAnswer":"Yes! Our Lady of Champion is less commonly known as Our Lady of Good Help."},{"id":"faq-question-1759786021592","question":["Is this apparition officially recognized by The Church?"],"answer":["Yes. In 2010, Bishop David Ricken of the Diocese of Green Bay declared the apparitions \u0022worth of belief.\u0022 “The apparitions and message here in Champion were very easy to evaluate,\u0022 he ",{"type":"a","props":{"href":"https://www.catholicworldreport.com/2019/10/09/a-conversation-with-bishop-ricken-about-the-apparition-of-our-lady-of-good-help/","children":["later said"]}},". \u0022It was not difficult to ascertain the soundness of doctrine of Mary’s apparition here.”"],"jsonQuestion":"Is this apparition officially recognized by The Church?","jsonAnswer":"Yes. In 2010, Bishop David Ricken of the Diocese of Green Bay declared the apparitions \u0022worth of belief.\u0022 “The apparitions and message here in Champion were very easy to evaluate,\u0022 he \u003ca href=\u0022https://www.catholicworldreport.com/2019/10/09/a-conversation-with-bishop-ricken-about-the-apparition-of-our-lady-of-good-help/\u0022\u003elater said\u003c/a\u003e. \u0022It was not difficult to ascertain the soundness of doctrine of Mary’s apparition here.”"},{"id":"faq-question-1759786154505","question":["What miracle is associated with Our Lady of Champion?"],"answer":["The miracle of of the chapel being perserved during the Great Peshtigo Fire is most commonly associated with Our Lady of Champion."],"jsonQuestion":"What miracle is associated with Our Lady of Champion?","jsonAnswer":"The miracle of of the chapel being perserved during the Great Peshtigo Fire is most commonly associated with Our Lady of Champion."},{"id":"faq-question-1759786291042","question":["Where is Our Lady of Champion?"],"answer":["The National Shrine of Our Lady of Champion is located in Champion, Wisconsin, outside of the city of Green Bay."],"jsonQuestion":"Where is Our Lady of Champion?","jsonAnswer":"The National Shrine of Our Lady of Champion is located in Champion, Wisconsin, outside of the city of Green Bay."}]} --> <div class="schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block"><div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1759785962408"><strong class="schema-faq-question">Is Our Lady of Champion the same as Our Lady of Good Help?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">Yes! Our Lady of Champion is less commonly known as Our Lady of Good Help.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1759786021592"><strong class="schema-faq-question">Is this apparition officially recognized by The Church?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">Yes. In 2010, Bishop David Ricken of the Diocese of Green Bay declared the apparitions "worth of belief." “The apparitions and message here in Champion were very easy to evaluate," he <a href="https://www.catholicworldreport.com/2019/10/09/a-conversation-with-bishop-ricken-about-the-apparition-of-our-lady-of-good-help/">later said</a>. "It was not difficult to ascertain the soundness of doctrine of Mary’s apparition here.”</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1759786154505"><strong class="schema-faq-question">What miracle is associated with Our Lady of Champion?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">The miracle of of the chapel being perserved during the Great Peshtigo Fire is most commonly associated with Our Lady of Champion.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1759786291042"><strong class="schema-faq-question">Where is Our Lady of Champion?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">The National Shrine of Our Lady of Champion is located in Champion, Wisconsin, outside of the city of Green Bay.</p> </div> </div> <!-- /wp:yoast/faq-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-marian-prayer-resources">More Marian Prayer Resources</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/feast-of-our-lady-of-guadalupe-prayers-celebrations/">Our Lady of Guadalupe</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/our-lady-of-aparecida-prayers-feast-day/">Our Lady of Aparecida</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/our-lady-of-chiquinquira-history-feast-day-and-prayers/">Our Lady of Chiquinquira</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-our-lady-of-mount-carmel-novena/">Our Lady of Mt. Carmel</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> [post_title] => Our Lady of Champion (Our Lady of Good Help) Apparitions, Feast Day, Prayers [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => our-lady-of-champion-feast-day-prayers [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-10-07 14:01:28 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-10-07 14:01:28 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=96513 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 95546 [post_author] => 32 [post_date] => 2025-10-02 19:50:39 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-10-02 19:50:39 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Feast of the Holy Guardian Angels, celebrated on October 2nd, offers a beautiful opportunity to honor the celestial beings God has assigned to guide and protect each of us throughout our lives. This special day invites us to acknowledge the constant, loving presence of these heavenly companions who walk alongside us on our spiritual journey.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Guardian Angels aren't just charming figures from childhood prayers—they're powerful spiritual allies that the Church and countless saints have recognized and celebrated for centuries. As Catholics, we're blessed with this annual reminder to express gratitude for their protection and to deepen our relationship with these faithful friends.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">"Beside each believer stands an angel as protector and shepherd leading him to life." - St. Basil (via <a href="https://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/__P1A.HTM">Catechism of the Catholic Church</a>)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/MEjoEifQVWb">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-holy-guardian-angels-and-the-church">The Holy Guardian Angels and the Church</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Catholic Church has long affirmed the reality of Guardian Angels. As the <a href="https://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/__P1A.HTM">Catechism</a> beautifully states: "From infancy to death human life is surrounded by their watchful care and intercession." (CCC 336). This isn't just a pious tradition—it's rooted in Scripture and the consistent teaching of The Church (<a href="https://www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/the-mass" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">USCCB Bible</a>).</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Jesus Himself spoke of angels watching over children in the Gospel of Matthew.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">"See that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that their angels in heaven always look upon the face of my heavenly Father." (Matthew 18:10)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">We learn about the angel St. Gabriel in the Gopsel of Luke, while Daniel and the Book of Revelation tell us about St. Michael. The book of Tobit mentions St. Raphael.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">"I was sent to put you to the test. At the same time, however, God sent me to heal you and your daughter-in-law Sarah. I am Raphael, one of the seven angels who stand and serve before the Glory of the Lord.” - Tobin 12:14-15</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/MEjoEifQVWb">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-holy-guardian-angels-feast-day">Holy Guardian Angels Feast Day</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Feast of the Holy Guardian Angels takes place on Oct. 2 each year across the entire Church.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Based on a map from <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/prayers-to-the-holy-spirit/">Google Trends</a>, the celebration seems especially prominent in Poland, Trinidad &amp; Tobago and the Philippines, along with Brazil, the United States and Kenya.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In Poland, the <a href="https://ofm.org/en/feast-of-the-province-of-our-lady-of-the-angels-in-poland.html">Franciscans gather</a> to celebrate the day. The country's strong devotion to Guardian Angels could have something to do with the <a href="https://aleteia.org/2017/09/23/the-eucharistic-miracle-of-sokolka-the-host-is-tissue-from-heart-of-a-dying-man/">Eucharistic miracle of Sokolka</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">"It is the common belief of the faithful, suppoted by the holy Fathers, Jerome, Hilary and Bernard, and, in fact, it is the belief of the whole Church, that every man has an Angel to whose charge God has entrusted him." <a href="https://books.google.com/books?id=IwwHeLOpY7wC&amp;pg=PA4&amp;dq=feast+of+the+holy+guardian+angels&amp;hl=en&amp;newbks=1&amp;newbks_redir=0&amp;sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi5zv_1noaQAxXkkokEHW7YC4AQ6AF6BAgGEAM#v=onepage&amp;q=feast%20of%20the%20holy%20guardian%20angels&amp;f=false">- an unknown Jesuit priest</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-guardian-angel-prayers">Guardian Angel Prayers</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">You can celebrate the Feast of the Holy Guardian Angels by praying some <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/guardian-angel-prayers/">Guardian Angel prayers</a>, which Hallow has compiled.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">You can offer these guardian angel prayers, but you can also pray as normal, knowing you're accompied by angels.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">St. Clement of Alexandria remidns us that even while we pray alone, we're <a href="https://media.benedictine.edu/not-just-friendly-spirits-the-fathers-of-the-church-correct-our-view-of-guardian-angels">joined to the choir of angels</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-celebrating-the-feast-of-the-holy-angels">Celebrating the Feast of the Holy Angels</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">It's easy to observe and celebrate the Feast of the Holy Angels.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Getting to daily Mass if you can is one simple way to celebrate the feast. If you can't make it to Mass, you can listen to a homily based on the readings for the day. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JfwoUimq0TY&amp;t=735s">Here's a homily </a>from Fr. Donald Haggerty of St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York City, reminding us that we all need guardian angels.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">You can also spend time in Scripture, perhaps reading the Book of Tobit, <a href="https://bible.usccb.org/bible/tobit/0">in which</a> "God hears the prayers of Tobit and Sarah and sends the angel Raphael in human form to aid them both."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Developing a Relationship With Your Guardian Angel</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Your Guardian Angel isn't just assigned to protect you—they're meant to be an active companion on your spiritual journey. Here are some ways to cultivate this relationship beyond the feast day:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Acknowledge their presence regularly throughout your day</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Ask for their guidance before making important decisions</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Thank them for specific moments of protection or inspiration</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Invite them to join you during <a href="/blog/how-to-pray-the-rosary/">praying the Rosary</a> or other devotions</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-common-questions-about-holy-guardian-angels">Common Questions About Holy Guardian Angels</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:yoast/faq-block {"questions":[{"id":"faq-question-1759418606978","question":["Do Guardian Angels have names?"],"answer":["The Bible mentions angels Michael, Raphael and Gabriel by name. The Church ",{"type":"a","props":{"href":"https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/ccdds/documents/rc_con_ccdds_doc_20020513_vers-direttorio_en.html","children":["discourages"]}}," the practice of \u0022assigning names to the Holy Angels\u0022 outside of these three."],"jsonQuestion":"Do Guardian Angels have names?","jsonAnswer":"The Bible mentions angels Michael, Raphael and Gabriel by name. The Church \u003ca href=\u0022https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/ccdds/documents/rc_con_ccdds_doc_20020513_vers-direttorio_en.html\u0022\u003ediscourages\u003c/a\u003e the practice of \u0022assigning names to the Holy Angels\u0022 outside of these three."},{"id":"faq-question-1759418725716","question":["How do I know if my Guardian Angel is trying to communicate with me?"],"answer":["Holy Guardian Angels don't speak to us in words. DIscernment is the best way to understand how they might be guiding or influencing us. Doing a ",{"type":"a","props":{"href":"https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-examen/","children":["daily examen"]}}," and exploring Ignatian discernment can help."],"jsonQuestion":"How do I know if my Guardian Angel is trying to communicate with me?","jsonAnswer":"Holy Guardian Angels don't speak to us in words. DIscernment is the best way to understand how they might be guiding or influencing us. Doing a \u003ca href=\u0022https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-examen/\u0022\u003edaily examen\u003c/a\u003e and exploring Ignatian discernment can help."},{"id":"faq-question-1759429316341","question":["How do you find your Guardian Angel?"],"answer":["You don't have to look very far\u002d\u002dyour Guardian Angel is already with you! It's less about \u0022finding\u0022 your Guardian Angel and more about opening your heart through prayer to your Guardian Angel's presence."],"jsonQuestion":"How do you find your Guardian Angel?","jsonAnswer":"You don't have to look very far\u002d\u002dyour Guardian Angel is already with you! It's less about \u0022finding\u0022 your Guardian Angel and more about opening your heart through prayer to your Guardian Angel's presence."},{"id":"faq-question-1759430551510","question":["Does every person have a Guardian Angel?"],"answer":["Yes! The Catholic Church believes teaches that each person has an Guardian Angel."],"jsonQuestion":"Does every person have a Guardian Angel?","jsonAnswer":"Yes! The Catholic Church believes teaches that each person has an Guardian Angel."}]} --> <div class="schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block"><div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1759418606978"><strong class="schema-faq-question">Do Guardian Angels have names?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">The Bible mentions angels Michael, Raphael and Gabriel by name. The Church <a href="https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/ccdds/documents/rc_con_ccdds_doc_20020513_vers-direttorio_en.html">discourages</a> the practice of "assigning names to the Holy Angels" outside of these three.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1759418725716"><strong class="schema-faq-question">How do I know if my Guardian Angel is trying to communicate with me?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">Holy Guardian Angels don't speak to us in words. DIscernment is the best way to understand how they might be guiding or influencing us. Doing a <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-examen/">daily examen</a> and exploring Ignatian discernment can help.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1759429316341"><strong class="schema-faq-question">How do you find your Guardian Angel?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">You don't have to look very far--your Guardian Angel is already with you! It's less about "finding" your Guardian Angel and more about opening your heart through prayer to your Guardian Angel's presence.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1759430551510"><strong class="schema-faq-question">Does every person have a Guardian Angel?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">Yes! The Catholic Church believes teaches that each person has an Guardian Angel.</p> </div> </div> <!-- /wp:yoast/faq-block --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-prayer-resources">More Prayer Resources</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/bible-study-guide-for-beginners/">Bible Study Guide</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/ignatian-spirituality-and-the-spiritual-exercises/">Ignatian Spirituality</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-surrender-novena/">How to pray the Surrender Novena</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/prayers-to-the-holy-spirit/">Holy Spirit prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/MEjoEifQVWb">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> [post_title] => The Feast of the Holy Guardian Angels [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => feast-of-holy-guardian-angels [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-10-02 19:50:53 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-10-02 19:50:53 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=95546 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 95628 [post_author] => 32 [post_date] => 2025-09-30 15:50:51 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-09-30 15:50:51 [post_content] => <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-table-of-content">Table of Content</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#definition">What is Spiritual Development/Holy Indifference?</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#suscipe-prayer">The Suscipe Prayer</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#biblical-roots">Jesus and Biblical Teachings on Detachment</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#detachment-and-freedom">Detachment and Freedom</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#prayers">Prayers for Detachment</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">As much as one can accumulate goods in this world, we can be absolutely sure of one thing: they will not enter the coffin with us. We cannot take property with us! Here, the senselessness of this vice is revealed. The bond of possession we create with objects is only apparent, because we are not the masters of the world: this earth that we love is in truth not ours, and we move about it like strangers and pilgrims. - <a href="https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/audiences/2024/documents/20240124-udienza-generale.html">Pope Francis, 2024</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/MEjoEifQVWb">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="definition">What Is Spiritual Detachment/Holy Indifference?</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In Catholic spirituality, detachment means surrendering to God and keeping him as the center of your life.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">It doesn't mean that you become cold to others or that you turn deny yourself relationships and possessions. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Rather, detachment means we lovlngly trust in God's plan above all else. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">This concept is sometimes referred to as Holy Indifference or Ignatian Indifference, which <a href="https://hallow.com/saints/ignatius-loyola/">St. Ignatius</a> <a href="https://books.google.com/books?id=-e4CAAAAQAAJ&amp;printsec=frontcover#v=onepage&amp;q&amp;f=false">wrote </a>about in his <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/ignatian-spirituality-and-the-spiritual-exercises/">Spiritual Exercises</a>, describing how people can view things through the lens of whether or how they help in serving God ( "...the desire of being better able to serve God our Lord moves them to take the thing or leave it.")</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">A great example of this detachment or Ignatian indifference exists in the vocation of parish priests. A parish priest can love his community deeply, devote countless hours to shepherding his flock, and grow close to parishioners. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">However, he may be asked to serve in a different parish, and follow his vocation to a new community.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Could be protest? Refuse to leave? Plead to stay in the parish where he might be beloved and comfortable? Perhaps. But the call to serve God by ministerig to a different parish takes priority. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="suscipe-prayer">The Suscipe Prayer</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Suscipe Prayer, from Ignatius himself, captures this concept of surrendering everythign to God beautifully.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>"Take, Lord, and receive all my liberty, my memory, my understanding, and my entire will, all I have and call my own. You have given all to me. To you, Lord, I return it. Everything is yours; do with it what you will. Give me only your love and your grace, that is enough for me."</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/MEjoEifQVWb">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="biblical-roots">Biblical Roots of Detachment</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The idea of detachment is deeply rooted in Scripture, starting with Jesus, who routinely preached its importance very clearly.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In Luke's Gospel, Jesus tells us, "In the same way, everyone of you who does not renounce all his possessions cannot be my disciple." (Luke 14:33)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Jesus shares a similar message in Matthew's Gospel: "Jesus said to him, “If you wish to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to [the] poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” (Matthew 19:21).</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">One of the most vivid passages Luke, portrayed powerfully in the hit TV show The Chosen, also speaks to letting go of wordly things. The Call of Simon the Fisherman is a stark reminder that our deepest call is to follow God.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">"For astonishment at the catch of fish they had made seized him and all those with him, and likewise James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were partners of Simon. Jesus said to Simon, 'Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.' When they brought their boats to the shore, they left everything and followed him." (Luke 9-11)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In this passage, Jesus shows Peter a haul of fish more impressive than any he could possibly imagine. But it helps Peter realize that his identity and commitment to being a fisherman matters little compared to his identity as being a follower of Jesus. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-detachment-transforms-our-prayer">How Detachment Transforms Our Prayer</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">When we practice benevolent detachment in our prayer life, several beautiful things happen:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>We experience greater peace, knowing outcomes rest in God's hands</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>We become more attentive to God's voice rather than our own</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>We develop greater trust in divine providence</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>We find freedom from anxiety about whether our prayers are "working"</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>We create space for God to surprise us with unexpected blessings</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Perhaps most of all, detachment offers us a freedom that we cannot enjoy if we are too attached to things other than God.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="detachment-and-freedom">Detachment and Freedom</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">It seems like a paradox, but surrendering and detaching from desires separate from God can actually be quite freeing and liberating.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">When we detach from certain things, we are free to love God more fully. And this help helps us to be more virtuous and share God's love with others more deeply.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">"The exhortation 'return to the Lord your God' implies that we detach ourselves from what keeps us far from Him. Our being detached is the necessary starting place for re-establishing with God the covenant broken by sin." - <a href="https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/homilies/2002/documents/hf_jp-ii_hom_20020213_ceneri.html">Pope John Paul II</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">As Robert Martin from St. Paul Center explains, the detachment is not an end itself. Rather, it opens us up someting far greater.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">"The emptying that detachment brings about prepares us for an infilling of something greater. The something greater is not only a greater delight in God but a greater and truer delight in all He has created," <a href="http://The emptying that detachment brings about prepares us for an infilling of something greater. The something greater is not only a greater delight in God but a greater and truer delight in all He has created. The proper ordering of lesser loves places us in a position to receive and embody a greater love for both God and our neighbor.">he writes.</a> "The proper ordering of lesser loves places us in a position to receive and embody a greater love for both God and our neighbor."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="prayers">Beginning to Detach with Prayer</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">There are many simple prayers that can help you slowly and gradually draw closer to God and trust more deeply in His will.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Consider praying a 9-day <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-surrender-novena/">surrender novena</a> to build a habit of surrendering ourselves to God.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">You can also pray the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-litany-of-trust/">Litany of Trust</a> to allow God to soften your heart and enable you to trust Him more fully.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Understanding ourselves and our attachments is done best through self-reflection. Consider praying a <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-examen/">daily examen</a> to better recognize and reflect on the different elements of your life and where God is speaking to you.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/MEjoEifQVWb">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> [post_title] => Spiritual Detachment and Holy Indifference [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => detachment-spiritual-indifference [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-09-30 15:51:18 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-09-30 15:51:18 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=95628 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )