Video: Journey to Easter - Ash Wednesday - 2026


Welcome to the beginning of our Journey to Easter. In this Ash Wednesday reflection, Fr. Carl invites adult children of divorce and separation to enter Lent through true interior conversion. “Rend your hearts, not your garments.” While we receive ashes and practice external disciplines, the deeper work God desires is the healing of our hearts. Fr. Carl reflects on:

  • The balance of personal healing and communal support

  • What it means to be ambassadors for Christ, even while still healing

  • The challenge and beauty of approaching God as a loving Father

As we begin this Lenten season, may we remember that we are beloved sons and daughters, embraced by a perfect Father who desires our healing.

Reflection Questions for Small Groups or Individuals:

  1. How can your Lenten practices support your healing as an ACOD?

  2. How is the image of God as Father a challenging one for you? How can Jesus’ relationship with the Father help you?

  3. How can you be an ambassador of hope and healing this Lent?

Fr. Carl Schlichte, OP

Fr. Carl is a Dominican friar and priest of the Western Province and a California native. He attended the first Life-Giving Wounds retreat on the West coast. His parents divorced when he was 7.

https://opwest.org/fr.-carl-schlichte-o.p
Next
Next

Video: Journey to Easter Introduction 2026