Ash Wednesday service at Parliament

Archbishop Cushley led an Ash Wednesday service for MSPs and staff at the Scottish Parliament yesterday.

The annual event sees MSPs and Holyrood staff receive their ashes and pray together.

Archbishop Cushley distributing ashes today at the Scottish Parliament. The service is organised each year by @rcpoliticsuk and gives MSPs and staff a chance to come together to pray, listen to scripture and receive their ashes. pic.twitter.com/BRrce7is26

— Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh (@archedinburgh) March 5, 2025

He said: "It is a moment of reflection and prayer for MSPs and Parliament staff as they begin the season of Lent.

"It's also a chance to pause and consider our shared commitment to justice, compassion, and service to others.

"I wish them the peace and grace to grow in faith during this sacred season."

He added: "Thanks to Claire Adamson MSP who sponsored the event and to Anthony Horan at the Catholic Parliamentary Office for organising it."

Earlier in the day Archbishop Cushley celebrated Mass at St Mary's Cathedral, which was attended by pupils from St Mary's Primary school.

Archbishop leads Ash Wednesday service at Holyrood

Archbishop Leo led an Ash Wednesday service for MSPs and staff at the Scottish Parliament today.

He said: "We prayed for the grace to examine ourselves with honesty and humility and also to ask for God’s help in following Him more closely in the 40 Days of Lent.

"Thanks to all who attended and to Presiding Officer Alison Johnstone for taking the time to meet me for a chat afterwards and also to John Kennedy from Meghan Gallacher MSPs office for helping facilitate this event."