Statement by President Joe Biden on Ash Wednesday

Source: The White House

History was made yesterday when Joe Biden became the first US president to mark the beginning of Lent with an Ash Wednesday statement. Earlier he received the ashes himself from Fr Brian McDermott SJ at Georgetown University.

The White House released this message eight hours ago:

Today, I join Christians across our country and around the world in observing Ash Wednesday. As we enter into the season of Lent, we know this moment of repentance, reflection, and renewal comes in the midst of a painful winter for our nation and the world.

On this Ash Wednesday and every day, we hold every family with an empty place at their table in our hearts. We pray for all those who have fallen on hard times and are worried about what morning will bring. Let us find strength in each other and faith that provides us purpose. And let us look with hope and anticipation toward Easter and brighter days ahead.