Ash Wednesday opened the season of Lent for Catholics around the globe, marking a time dedicated to reflection and penance. In North Beach, many gathered to receive ashes, embodying their faith as they also offered special prayers for Pope Francis, who is currently hospitalized due to respiratory issues.

Traditions and Prayers

At St. Peter and St. Paul Catholic Church, Father Lam led the congregation in receiving ashes, a tradition that has been observed for centuries. This act symbolizes repentance and prepares believers for the upcoming Easter fast.

“We are asking people to do some penance and do some good works, helping others, so we can all go together and prepare ourselves for Easter,” said Father Lam.

This year’s observance carries additional weight as the global Catholic community unites in prayers for the Pope’s health. Father Lam emphasized this connection, stating:

“We ask you to pray for his speedy recovery, so that he can resume his duty as the pastor of the whole world.”

Church Attendance Trends

Amidst the solemnity of Ash Wednesday, there is a growing concern regarding declining church attendance. A recent report from the Hartford Archdiocese highlights an 18% decrease in attendance among Catholics from 2019 to 2024, a trend partially attributed to a rise in individuals identifying with no religious affiliation.

Optimism Amid Challenges

Despite the statistics, some church leaders are encouraged by glimpses of renewed engagement. Frank Lavin, a Eucharistic minister, expressed positivity as he observed a larger turnout this Ash Wednesday.

“It was really great this morning to see so many people in church getting their ashes again. Because it used to be a really big deal to go to church on Ash Wednesday, get ashes, give something up for Lent. So, I feel like the tide is kind of changing,” Lavin remarked.

The decline in attendance is also linked to enduring controversies, particularly the church’s historical sexual abuse scandals. Nonetheless, Father Lam remains hopeful for the future of his congregation.

“When you look at the human face of the church, we find many faults and many defects and so on, but don’t forget that Jesus Christ is the real leader of the church,” said Father Lam. “So we have to look at the church not only from the human point of view, but also from the divine perspective.”