18/02/2026
โช๏ธToday, on Ash Wednesday, we would like to wish everyone a Blessed Lent.
๐Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Lent; 40 days in The Christian Calendar which mark a time of solemnity, repentance and spiritual growth.
โช๏ธThis year Lent begins on Wednesday, 18 February and ends on Thursday 2 April.
๐Itโs traditionally observed in Spring when the days are beginning to get longer โ and its origins are formed from Lent being an old English word meaning โlengthenโ.
๐ฌRevโd Martyn Jinks, Head of Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care said: โToday marks the beginning of Lent, the forty-day season leading up to Easter.
โFor Christians, this is a significant time of reflection and preparation. It is a period to pause and consider the story of Jesusโ time in the wildernessโa time of simplicity, prayer, and focusing on what truly matters.
โMany people choose to mark Lent by giving something up, like a treat or a habit, as a reminder to rely less on material things. Others take something up, such as an act of kindness or a few moments of quiet prayer each day. At its heart, Lent is about creating a space to reconnect with God and with our own values.
โWhether you observe Lent in a traditional way, or whether this season simply prompts a moment of personal reflection, I hope it may be a peaceful and meaningful time for you.
"Please know that the Chaplaincy Team is here for everyone in our hospital community, of all faiths and none. If you would like someone to talk to, or if you would like a blessing or prayer, please do get in touch.โ