By Antonio Dey | HGP Nightly news |
GEORGETOWN, GUYANA — The solemn ring of bells and the scent of incense filled the air in the capital city on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, as hundreds of Christians gathered to observe Ash Wednesday. Marking the official commencement of the Lenten Season, services at the iconic St. George’s Cathedral and the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception (Brickdam Cathedral) focused on the themes of repentance, mortality, and spiritual renewal.
As the Christian community begins this 40-day journey toward Easter, the rituals served as a poignant reminder of faith’s enduring role in the lives of many Guyanese.
The Ritual of Ashes: “Dust to Dust”
Across both the Anglican and Catholic traditions in the city, the day was defined by the imposition of ashes—a practice that dates back centuries.
- The Symbolism: Worshippers approached the altar to have a cross of black ash traced upon their foreheads. The ashes, traditionally prepared by burning the palm fronds from the previous year’s Palm Sunday, symbolize penance and the fragility of life.
- The Message: As clergy applied the ashes, they recited the solemn biblical reminder: “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.”
- The Atmosphere: At St. George’s, the world’s tallest wooden cathedral, the service was characterized by traditional Anglican hymns and a call to humility. Meanwhile, at Brickdam Cathedral, the Catholic faithful gathered in large numbers, reflecting on the “spiritual homecoming” that Lent represents.
The Three Pillars of Lent
Clergy at both cathedrals emphasized that Ash Wednesday is not an isolated event, but the gateway to a transformative 40-day period. Believers were encouraged to focus on the three traditional pillars of Lenten practice:
- Fasting: A physical discipline intended to heighten spiritual hunger and self-control.
- Prayer: Deepening the personal and communal conversation with the Divine.
- Almsgiving: A commitment to charity and supporting the vulnerable within the community.
Historic Significance of the Venues
The observance at these two specific locations highlights their status as pillars of Guyanese heritage:
- St. George’s Cathedral: A masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a symbol of the Anglican Diocese of Guyana.
- Brickdam Cathedral: The premier Catholic place of worship in the country, standing as a testament to the diverse religious fabric of the city.
“Lent stands as a profound and sacred season… inviting a transformative experience, encouraging introspection, and a realignment of life with purpose and grace,” remarked Antonio Dey during his report.
Looking Ahead: The Lenten Calendar
As the city transitions into this quieter, more reflective season, various parish activities are planned, including:
- Stations of the Cross: Held every Friday evening during Lent at Brickdam and other Catholic parishes.
- Lenten Missions: Special guest speakers and study sessions at St. George’s to explore the 2026 theme of “Recommitment.”
- Holy Week: The climax of the season, beginning with Palm Sunday and concluding with the joyous celebration of Easter Sunday on April 5, 2026.
