Father Michael Darcy delivers homily during the Ash Wednesday Mass at Corpus Christi Church, Wednesday, February 18, 2026. Dialog photo/Don Blake
The frigid weather we’ve experienced the first part of 2026 in Delaware and the Eastern Shore of Maryland has let up enough recently to free more people who have been hibernating from the cold.
That was evident Feb. 18 as Ash Wednesday drew large gatherings for the traditional start of Lent.
More than 175 people turned out for ashes and 8:30 a.m. Mass at Corpus Christi Church on New Road in Wilmington.
Morning, midday and evening services provided enough chances for people to get to church for their ashes at the beginning of Lent. Check your local parish for times.
Alicia Rodriguez received ashes during the Ash Wednesday Mass at Corpus Christi Church, Wednesday, February 18, 2026. Dialog photo/Don Blake
Father Michael Darcy distributes ashes to Vince Lunetta during the Ash Wednesday Mass at Corpus Christi Church, Wednesday, February 18, 2026. Dialog photo/Don Blake
Mark Diffenbaugh prays after receiving ashes during the Ash Wednesday Mass at Corpus Christi Church, Wednesday, February 18, 2026. Photo/Don Blake
Michael C. Vannicola talks with a parishioner after the Ash Wednesday Mass at Corpus Christi Church, Wednesday, February 18, 2026. Dialog photo/Don Blake
Deacon David Deghetto and Father Michael Darcy distribute ashes during the Ash Wednesday Mass at Corpus Christi Church, Wednesday, February 18, 2026. Dialog photo/Don Blake
Father Michael Darcy delivers homily during the Ash Wednesday Mass at Corpus Christi Church, Wednesday, February 18, 2026. Dialog photo/Don Blake
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