Ash Wednesday 2026 Reflection

Called to Journey Together
Oblate James Holzhauer-Chuckas, ObSB, Executive Director

Dear UCYM Community,

As we begin Lent and receive ashes marked in the shape of the cross, we are reminded of who we are: beloved, fragile, and called to return to God with our whole hearts. Lent is not a journey we take alone. We are called to walk together, to journey to the Cross in solidarity with Christ and with one another.

The Church gives us three sacred Lenten practices: prayer, fasting, and almsgiving as pathways of conversion for both our hearts and our world.

Through prayer, we allow God to shape us. In prayer, we bring before God the realities of our time: people facing uncertainty and fear due to unjust treatment of immigrants and people profiled as an immigrant, communities wounded by racism and homophobia, and a world crying out under environmental degradation. True prayer does not close our eyes to suffering; it opens them. It forms us into disciples who listen deeply and act courageously if we allow to see where God is revealing for us to act. 

Through fasting, we let go of comfort and indifference. We fast not only from food or distractions, but from attitudes and systems that diminish human dignity. Fasting invites us into solidarity with those who carry crosses daily: young people navigating prejudice, exclusion, and fear. It reminds us that following Christ means standing with those whose dignity is threatened.

Through almsgiving, love becomes visible. We share our resources, time, and advocacy so that every young person, regardless of race, background, immigration status, or identity, knows they belong to the heart of the Church. We recommit ourselves to caring for creation, protecting human dignity, and building communities rooted in justice and mercy.

At UCYM, our mission has always been accompaniment. This Lent, may we accompany one another more intentionally, walking toward the Cross together, trusting that resurrection hope is born from courageous love.

​Let us pray boldly, fast with purpose, and give generously. 

In solidarity with you on the Lenten journey,