When you go up to receive ashes on Ash Wednesday, you actually don’t have to say anything at all; the set words are spoken by the minister, not by you.

What is usually said

The priest or minister will trace the cross with ashes on your forehead and say one of these traditional lines:

  • “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.”
  • “Repent, and believe in the Gospel.” (Some traditions also use “Turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel.”)

You simply step forward, bow your head slightly or look at the minister, receive the ashes, and then return to your place in silence.

Do you have to respond?

Most people do not respond with any words—silence and a short personal prayer are perfectly normal and fully “correct.”

If you really want to say something quietly in your heart, common short prayers are:

  • “Lord, have mercy on me.”
  • “Jesus, help me to follow you.”
  • “Create in me a clean heart, O God.”

These are not required responses; they’re just personal, private prayers you can use if they help you enter into the moment.