When you go to receive your ashes, you may wonder if you're supposed to leave them on your forehead all day. Others may see you and wonder what they are, or they may make a comment about them.

So, what should you do as a Catholic? It turns out, there is some freedom involved.

Patrick Madrid discusses two schools of thought on this, first.


Some view wearing ashes throughout the day as a public witness to one's Christian faith, similar to wearing a cross lapel pin. They see it as a positive expression of belief in Jesus Christ's life, death, and resurrection.


Others interpret a passage from Matthew 6 about fasting, suggesting that wearing ashes might be considered ostentatious or seeking attention, which goes against the spirit of humility in fasting.

Patrick says that both options are just fine, as the Church imposes no requirement regarding the wearing of ashes. In other words, there's no official rule on this.

He leans towards wearing ashes throughout the day but acknowledges that some may prefer to wash them off to avoid drawing attention to themselves. Ultimately, he emphasizes your freedom to choose either approach based on what you feel convicted to do. He also says that in today's secular society, there's never been a better time to display your faith boldly.

If you choose to leave them on all day, don't be ashamed! It's a great way to evangelize! 

When you go to receive your ashes, you may wonder if you're supposed to leave them on your forehead all day. Others may see you and wonder what they are, or they may make a comment about them.
So, what should you do as a Catholic? It turns out, there is some freedom involved.
Patrick Madrid discusses two schools of thought on this, first.
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Some view wearing ashes throughout the day as a public witness to one's Christian faith, similar to wearing a cross lapel pin. They see it as a positive expression of belief in Jesus Christ's life, death, and resurrection.
</li>
<li>
Others interpret a passage from Matthew 6 about fasting, suggesting that wearing ashes might be considered ostentatious or seeking attention, which goes against the spirit of humility in fasting.
</li>
</ol>
Patrick says that both options are just fine, as the Church imposes no requirement regarding the wearing of ashes. In other words, there's no official rule on this.
He leans towards wearing ashes throughout the day but acknowledges that some may prefer to wash them off to avoid drawing attention to themselves. Ultimately, he emphasizes your freedom to choose either approach based on what you feel convicted to do. He also says that in today's secular society, there's never been a better time to display your faith boldly.
If you choose to leave them on all day, don't be ashamed! It's a great way to evangelize!

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Life can get busy, and it's easy to miss out on the captivating moments from your favorite Relevant Radio shows. But now, we've got you covered! "The Best of the Week - Relevant Radio Podcast" brings you the crème de la crème of Relevant Radio's programming. We carefully curate and compile the most engaging and relevant content from the past week, just for you! Get ready to catch up on faith, culture, current events, and personal growth, all in one convenient and easily accessible podcast. It's like having a front-row seat to the most compelling moments from Relevant Radio's diverse range of shows. So, whether you're an active Relevant Radio listener or new to our programming, "The Best of the Week - Relevant Radio Podcast" is your passport to a world of knowledge, growth, and inspiration.

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