Ash smeared in the shape of a cross marked the foreheads of those who attended Ash Wednesday Mass in the Chapel of Christ the Teacher, beginning the 2026 Lenten season.
The Beacon asked students after Mass on Feb. 18 to describe the holy day in one word, share their Lenten goals, and reflect on faith in college.
Zoe Kane is a junior history major
Zoe Kane
Ash Wednesday in one word: Humility
“A habit I’m trying to change during Lent is consumerism,” Kane said. “I’ve resolved to use this Lent as an opportunity to examine what I really need and limit my expenses beyond that.”
Charlotte Bounatirou is a business administration major. by Rowan Lowery / The Beacon
Charlotte Bounatirou
Ash Wednesday in one word: Faith
“College life has helped me strengthen my faith because I met other Catholic people with whom I could go to the Mass with [and] share my fears and faith,” Bounatirou said. “Having the ability to go to church whenever I want is also a blessing.”
Giovanni Vaz is a sophomore economics major.
Giovanni Vaz
Ash Wednesday in one word: Humility
“Attending UP has genuinely strengthened and deepened my faith,” Vaz said. “During my first year, I experienced a renewed sense of purpose in my relationship with Christ; a fresh spark that made my faith personal and alive. Where I once saw Mass as routine, I now look forward to it.”
Paige Masulit is a senior mechanical engineering major.
Paige Masulit
Ash Wednesday in one word: Growth
“This Lenten season I really want to cut back on my media consumption and fully take in all the moments that I share with those around me,” Masulit said. “I want to use the time I currently spend doomscrolling to develop myself and my good habits instead.”
Angelo Datu vicencio is a junior nursing major.
Angelo Datu Vicencio
Ash Wednesday in one word: Perseverance
“College has ultimately strengthened my faith in God,” Datu Vicencio said. “During my sophomore year, my grandfathers, Lolo Julio and Lolo Roger, passed away, which was really hard for me. However, UP had an ‘Encounter with Christ Retreat’ that let me truly connect with the Lord and see life through a new lens.”
Evan Guerra is the Multimedia Editor for The Beacon. He can be reached at guerra28@up.edu.
