Summary
Irish Bishop Alphonsus Cullinan of Waterford and Lismore spent Ash Wednesday distributing ashes to the city’s Catholic population in Waterford City. This act has now become an annual tradition in his episcopacy. The 65-year-old bishop, when asked about continuing his ministry on Shrove Tuesday, responded affirmatively if weather conditions permitted. On the day he promised, Cullinan braved bitter cold and wet conditions to administer ashes. Commenting on the practice, he stated that bringing Christ out into the street is essential as He does not want to remain only in the tabernacle. The bishop emphasized how the act of wearing ashes symbolizes mortality for many people. Notably, he has previously carried a cross through city streets on Good Friday and stressed the Church’s duty to go where people are. In his current role, Cullinan launched a new vocations monstrance blessed by Pope Leo XIV to gather faithful for prayerful Eucharistic adoration. Ash Wednesday marks the start of the 40 days of preparation leading up to Easter’s Resurrection.
Key Topics
Bishop Cullinan, Ash Wednesday, Waterford City
