As explained by Catholic Online, the ashes symbolize the dust from which God made us. As the priest applies the ashes to a person's forehead, he speaks the words: "Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return."
Ashes also symbolize grief, in this case, grief that we have sinned and caused division from God. Writings from the Second-century Church refer to the wearing of ashes as a sign of penance.
Ash Wednesday is one of the most popular and important holy days in the liturgical calendar. It opens Lent, a season of fasting and prayer.
Ash Wednesday takes place 46 days before Easter Sunday, and is chiefly observed by Catholics, although many other Christians observe it too. It comes from the ancient Jewish tradition of penance and fasting.
Ash Wednesday 2017: Check out Its Significance and 7 Interesting Facts at NDTV.
In latest news, Tinley Park church prepares for Ash Wednesday.
o get ready for a special Mass, the pastor of St. George Church and School in Tinley Park, burned palms Tuesday to make ashes.
The Rev. Ken Fleck, also explained to students the meaning of the Ash Wednesday Mass, which will include having a cross marked on foreheads in ashes. Read more at Chicago Tribune.