Chicago Catholics celebrate Ash Wednesday as Pope Francis faces health challenge
Chicago Catholics celebrate Ash Wednesday at Holy Name Cathedral
Many Chicago Catholics participated in Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of Lent.
CHICAGO - On Ash Wednesday, Catholics took time out of their lives to get their ashes for the first day of Lent.
Holy Name Cathedral in Chicago held many services and masses on Wednesday.
"We had 12 services in 12 hours and every service had people and so it’s really moving to me to see people making this a priority in their life," said Reverend Andy Matijevic, with the Holy Name Cathedral.
The 5:15 p.m. mass on Wednesday was standing room only.
Father Andy said this season of hope is coming at a good time.
"Lent means renewal. It's time to return to our foundation, knowing that we're loved and I think it comes at a time of a lot of unknowns, a lot of uncertainty and a fear, but knowing that this season ends with the resurrection ends in joy," said Rev. Matijevic.
Worries about Pope Francis
Big picture view:
The day has a special meaning for Catholics, especially this year, as Pope Francis’ declining health has worried many around the world.
The pope remained in the hospital as of Wednesday, with his stay nearing the three-week mark. His serious condition has stabilized, but it’s still complex.
The 88-year-old suffers from chronic lung disease and was still fighting double pneumonia.
Father Matijevic said the Pontiff’s illness puts things into perspective.
"One of the cardinals in Rome said, we started lent when the Pope entered the hospital and we pray for him, knowing that God's will, will be done," said Rev. Matijevic.
Catholics around Holy Name Cathedral in downtown Chicago said the pope’s health weighs heavy on their minds as the leader of the Catholic Church was not able to lead the Ash Wednesday mass at the Vatican this year.
‘Season of renewal’
What they're saying:
Many people explained what the tradition of the ashes represents for them.
"It's a season of renewal, so I think to me it's almost a bit of symbolic, and it's important that we honor it every year," said one woman.
Another man added, "It's a reminder of the good fortune that I've had in life and the things that we ought to be doing to sacrifice to try to give a little bit back."
Earlier on Wednesday, Fox 32’s cameras were there while people received their ashes, even at Union Station in the city’s downtown.
Many said the convenience of the ashes helps them observe Ash Wednesday.