Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the season of Lent, which is a time of fasting, prayer, and almsgiving. The ashes we receive on Ash Wednesday symbolize the dust from which God made us. “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” Lent is a time of spiritual preparation for Christians that helps us strip away what is unnecessary in our lives. The 40 days of Lent correspond to the 40 days that Jesus spent in the wilderness to fast, pray, and endure the temptations of the devil, all in preparation for his public ministry which would culminate in his death on the cross at Calvary.

Here at the Basilica this year, we are offering several opportunities to aid you in your Lenten journey.

Lent 2018 Mini-Course

Best Lent Ever

This year at St. Mary’s, we will be participating in the Best Lent Ever, a free email program from The Dynamic Catholic Institute. Receive daily emails with short inspirational videos, practical tips for your everyday life, and real-life stories to encourage you in your journey. Don’t give up just chocolate this year for Lent!

The Light Is On For You

“The Church must be a place of mercy freely given, where everyone can feel welcomed, loved, forgiven and encouraged to live the good life of the Gospel.” –Pope Francis, (The Joy of the Gospel, 114)

Welcome! Our doors are open and the light is on.  The Light is On is an initiative of the Archdiocese of Washington and the Diocese of Arlington where all Catholic churches across the DC metro area are open for quiet prayer and Confession. During Lent, we will offer confessions on Wednesdays from 6:30pm to 8:00pm starting February 21 through March 21. We also offer additional confession times throughout the week.

Soup & Stations

Every Friday during Lent (except for Good Friday), we will host Soup & Stations beginning at 6pm in the Lyceum. Families and their children are welcome and encouraged to join us for this Friday tradition. Types of soups served include Butternut Squash, Cream of Mushroom, and Creamy Parm Tomato. After the Soup Supper, everyone walks over to the church to pray the Stations of the Cross at 7pm.