January 1, Trump Highlights Faith for Ash Wednesday

Wyatt’s Take

• Trump stands with Americans honoring Ash Wednesday.
• He reminds the nation of Lent’s roots in sacrifice and reflection.
• Calls faith a core part of American heritage.

President Trump and the First Lady marked Ash Wednesday alongside millions, honoring a tradition that starts the Christian Lenten season. Trump described Ash Wednesday as a time for Christians to show faith and remember Jesus through the act of receiving ashes.

“Every Ash Wednesday, Christians receive ashes in the shape of a cross on their foreheads as a visible reminder of our belonging to Jesus Christ and our enduring need for penance,” the president explained.

He recalled that Lent is modeled after Jesus’ 40 days in the wilderness, leading up to Easter, encouraging people to fast, pray, and help others. These actions, Trump said, build faith and prepare hearts for Easter’s message.

The president pointed out that Palm Sunday starts Holy Week, and explained the tradition of using burned palm branches for the ashes. He stressed that prayer, fasting, and charity have shaped American life from the Revolution to today.

“From the Colonists who turned to prayer and fasting in the heart of the Revolutionary War to the unmatched compassion and generosity of America’s churches, hospitals, and charitable institutions, these righteous acts of faith over the centuries have always stood at the center of our identity, our heritage, and our way of life,” he wrote.

Trump ended with a nod to Mark 1:15, reminding Americans of Jesus’ call to repentance.

“This Ash Wednesday, as we remember the Passion and ultimate sacrifice of Christ on the cross, we send our best wishes for a meaningful Lenten season,” Trump said. “Above all, as we prepare for the triumphant resurrection of Jesus Christ on Easter Sunday—the greatest miracle in the history of mankind—we pause to remember those sacred words: ‘This is the time of fulfillment. The Kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the Gospel.’”

Faith has anchored families and shaped values across Middle America for generations. Traditions like Ash Wednesday remind us of the strength found in unity, charity, and genuine belief.

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Wyatt Matters

Faith brings neighbors together through thick and thin. Remembering our roots gives us hope and keeps our communities strong.