Rome Firefighters Receive Ash Wednesday Blessings

Reverend administers ashes to first responders as Lent begins

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Rev. Sean O'Brien visited the Rome Fire Department on Ash Wednesday to administer ashes to firefighters, including Capt. David Gratch, as the Christian season of Lent commenced. Lent is a 40-day period of fasting and reflection leading up to Easter Sunday.

Why it matters

Ash Wednesday marks the start of the Lenten season, a significant time of spiritual renewal for many Christians. The tradition of receiving ashes on the forehead is a symbolic gesture of repentance and the reminder that "from dust we come, and to dust we shall return." This annual ritual is an important part of the faith lives of many first responders and community members.

The details

Rev. O'Brien, a local priest, made a special trip to the Rome Fire Department on Ash Wednesday to offer the traditional imposition of ashes to firefighters and other personnel. The ashes are made from the burned palms of the previous year's Palm Sunday celebrations. Receiving the ashes is a way for Christians to mark the start of Lent and their commitment to spiritual reflection and repentance.

  • Ash Wednesday is celebrated six-and-a-half weeks before Easter Sunday.
  • Lent is observed over the 40 weekdays leading up to Easter.

The players

Rev. Sean O'Brien

A local priest who visited the Rome Fire Department to administer Ash Wednesday rites.

Capt. David Gratch

A firefighter at the Rome Fire Department who received ashes from Rev. O'Brien.

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What they’re saying

“Receiving the ashes is a powerful reminder of our mortality and the need to repent and draw closer to God during this holy season.”

— Capt. David Gratch, Firefighter (Rome Sentinel)

What’s next

The Rome Fire Department will continue observing Lenten traditions and spiritual practices throughout the 40-day period leading up to Easter Sunday.

The takeaway

Ash Wednesday and the Lenten season are important annual rituals for many first responders and community members, providing a chance for spiritual reflection and renewal as they prepare for the joy of Easter.