Elementary students celebrating Ash Wednesday

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Story Published: Feb 25, 2009 at 6:30 PM MDT

Story Updated: Feb 25, 2009 at 7:34 PM MDT

By Wes Horrocks

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POCATELLO - Millions of people around the world are celebrating Ash Wednesday, and are preparing for 40 days of Lent. Here in Southeast Idaho even elementary students are getting involved.

Besides attending mass today students at the Holy Spirit Catholic School in Pocatello are making some small changes to recognize Ash Wednesday and the Lenten season. Father Enrique Terriquez, Holy Spirit Catholic Community Pastor said, "We all proclaim that we need help."

And students at the Holy Spirit Catholic School aren't just making that proclamation with ashes on their forehead.

Second graders in Mrs. Behrend's class are staying quiet. Mathias, a second grader said, "We can't talk unless Mrs. Behrend says so, our teacher."

The class had a few hand signals worked out, and used a magnetic board when they needed to communicate. "It's like a little sacrifice, kind of," said Mathias.

Fifth and sixth graders created a chain to represent all the other students and staff they're praying for during the Lenten season. Tracy Aytes, fifth grade teacher said, "Kids that got names of other students, or people that they don't know as well, they're seeking out on the playground-like 'who is that?' So you see them meeting other people."

The kids also bought hot cross buns that will be given to the person they're praying for. All of the money will help buy Catechism for those who join the church at Easter.

The day also meant a change of schedule. Emmanuel, a second grader said, "We usually have a school mass on Thursday, but today we did it on Wednesday."

And that special service will also help the students remember the purpose of Lent during the next 40 days. Father Enrique said, "We can really move forward. No staying in our weaknesses, but always trying to do our best."

Mass has been held throughout the day at St. Anthony, with the final services scheduled at St. Paul and St. Joseph Wednesday at 7 p.m.

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