Archbishop of New York to Lead Ash Wednesday Services at St. Patrick's Cathedral

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The Archbishop of New York, Ronald Hicks, will lead Ash Wednesday services at St. Patrick's Cathedral in Midtown Manhattan on February 18, 2026. Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Lenten season for Christians, with worshippers receiving ashes on their foreheads in the shape of a cross as a reminder of mortality.

Why it matters

Ash Wednesday is one of the most important observances in the Catholic Church, signifying the start of the 40-day Lenten period leading up to Easter. As the newly installed Archbishop of New York, Hicks' presiding over the services at the iconic St. Patrick's Cathedral holds symbolic significance for the local Catholic community.

The details

In addition to the Ash Wednesday services at St. Patrick's Cathedral, Catholic Charities of New York will be hosting a pop-up food pantry at St. Cecilia's Church in Harlem on the same day. The food pantry will open at 10 a.m. and distribute free food on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Ash Wednesday services will be held on February 18, 2026.
• The Catholic Charities of New York pop-up food pantry will open at 10 a.m. on February 18, 2026.

What’s next

The Archbishop of New York will continue to lead Catholic observances and services throughout the Lenten season, culminating in Easter Sunday celebrations.