Ash Wednesday is one of the most widely accessible moments in the Church’s liturgical year, serving as a powerful reminder that God’s grace is available to all, without exception. This message was at the heart of a conversation with James Hanvey SJ, a British Jesuit priest and theologian who currently serves as Secretary for the Service of Faith at the Jesuit General Curia in Rome.

In the latest episode of the podcast Preach: The Catholic Homilies Podcast, produced by America Media, Fr Hanvey discusses the universal appeal of Ash Wednesday. Titled “Ash Wednesday: A Day of Grace and Welcome for All – No Exceptions”, the episode features Fr Hanvey in conversation with fellow Jesuit Ricardo da Silva SJ. You can listen to the full episode via Apple podcasts here, or via Spotify here.

During the discussion, Hanvey reflected on the deep and universal draw of the Ash Wednesday ritual. “Everyone is drawn to the ashes—for whatever reason,” he observed. “They may not feel that they can receive Communion, but they're drawn to the ashes. And I think it's about helping people understand, first of all, that they have a place here in this community, that they are welcomed and that the grace of this moment is for them.”

Hanvey emphasised the inclusivity of the day, noting that Ash Wednesday transcends religious boundaries and personal circumstances. “We’re all in need,” he said. “How can I judge that your need is greater than my need? This quantifying doesn’t make sense. I mean, we all come in our need to the One that we need”.

His reflections were shared as part of the Lenten season programming on the podcast Preach. Preach offers daily Scripture reflections and encourages listeners to engage more deeply with their faith.

For more insights from Hanvey this Lent, you can read his homily in America Magazine’s website here.

Banner photo by Ahna Ziegler on Unsplash