Happy Ash Wednesday!
Actor Mark Wahlberg posted a special Ash Wednesday message to his 12 million Instagram followers today.
He says he sends his love, prayers, and blessings to everyone. He also implies that he will not post as often on social media this Lenten season, as he plans to “spend some extra quiet time” in prayer.
Check out his video below:
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Today we celebrate the start of Lent. Love you all 🙏🏼❤️Happy Ash Wednesday ✝️
Click here if you cannot see the video above.
The caption of his video reads, “Today we celebrate the start of Lent. Love you all. 🙏🏼❤️Happy Ash Wednesday ✝️”
Here’s what he says:
“It’s here–one of my favorite times of the year! Happy Ash Wednesday to everybody! Make sure if you’re Catholic, you go get your ashes.
“God bless everybody–all religions, all walks of life. Lots of prayers going out for everybody. Looking forward to Easter coming up soon.”
While making the sign of the cross, Wahlberg adds, “God bless you all in this Lenten season. God bless you always. And if you don’t hear from me, I’m trying to spend some extra quiet time. God bless you.”
At the end of the video, he invites his friend “Ace” or Anthony Thomas, (who also has ashes on his forehead) to add a comment. They both say, “God bess you.”
He concludes with “God bless you. Love you guys.”
Mark Wahlberg is often vocal about his Catholic faith.
He has posted similar Ash Wednesday messages in previous years, was an emcee at the Festival of Families during Pope Francis’ 2015 visit to the United States, and promoted priestly vocations in a video for the National Conference of Diocesan Vocation Directors in Boston.
However, Wahlberg has been criticized for his leading role in the vulgar “Ted” movie series. He has also implied his support for same-sex marriage.
Happy Ash Wednesday everyone!
[See also: Mark Wahlberg Calls for Priestly Vocations, Says Catholic Faith’s “My Anchor”]
[See also: Is it Arbitrary or Necessary? Fr. Mike Schmitz’s Lenten Guide to Choosing the Right Penance]