Ashes are normally given right after the homily during the Ash Wednesday Mass, as part of the special “Blessing and Distribution of Ashes” rite.

When in the Mass are ashes given?

In the typical Catholic Ash Wednesday Mass, the sequence is:

  1. Liturgy of the Word (readings and Gospel).
  1. Homily (short sermon).
  1. Blessing of ashes immediately after the homily.
  1. Distribution of ashes to everyone who comes forward.
  1. Mass then continues with the Liturgy of the Eucharist as usual.

So, if you are attending a full Mass, expect to receive ashes shortly after the priest finishes the homily, not at the very beginning or very end.

Outside of Mass

The Church also allows ashes to be blessed and distributed outside of Mass, in a shorter “celebration of the Word of God” (a Liturgy of the Word without the Eucharist).

In that case:

  • There are one or more Scripture readings and a brief homily.
  • Then ashes are blessed and distributed right after the homily, just like in Mass.

Some parishes offer only this kind of service on Ash Wednesday instead of, or in addition to, a full Mass.

Practical example (what it feels like)

If your parish has a 7:00 p.m. Ash Wednesday Mass:

  • You arrive, there is the usual opening of Mass and readings.
  • After the Gospel, the priest preaches a Lenten homily.
  • He then blesses the ashes with a special prayer, and the ministers begin placing ashes on people’s foreheads (or sprinkling on the head, depending on local practice).
  • Once everyone has received ashes, Mass continues with the preparation of the altar and Eucharistic Prayer.

Key takeaway

  • In Mass: ashes are given after the homily , before the Liturgy of the Eucharist.
  • In a Word service: ashes are given after the readings and homily , then the service finishes with prayers.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.