Denver Cathedral Hosts Ash Wednesday Service

Archbishop Samuel J. Aquila anoints parishioners with ashes during a noon service.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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On Ash Wednesday, February 18, 2026, the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in downtown Denver hosted a noon service where Archbishop Samuel J. Aquila anointed parishioners with ashes.

Why it matters

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Lenten season for many Christian denominations, and the service at the Denver Cathedral is an important annual tradition for the local Catholic community.

The details

During the service, Archbishop Aquila used ashes to make the sign of the cross on the foreheads of parishioners, a symbolic ritual representing repentance and the recognition of human mortality.

  • The service took place at noon on Ash Wednesday, February 18, 2026.

The players

Archbishop Samuel J. Aquila

The Archbishop of Denver who presided over the Ash Wednesday service at the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception.

Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception

The historic Catholic cathedral in downtown Denver where the Ash Wednesday service was held.

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The takeaway

The annual Ash Wednesday service at the Denver Cathedral is an important ritual for the local Catholic community, marking the start of the Lenten season and a time of reflection and repentance.