In Sorocaba, São Paulo, several masses are scheduled to celebrate Ash Wednesday on February 18, heralding the start of Lent—a 40-day period leading up to Easter. This year’s Fraternity Campaign is themed 'Fraternity and Housing,' accompanied by the motto 'He came to dwell among us,' reflecting the significance and social consciousness of the occasion.

The ceremonies will take place at various local venues, with the Metropolitan Cathedral hosting services at 10 AM, 12 PM, 5 PM, and 7 PM, while the parish of Nossa Senhora Auxiliadora will hold a mass at 7 PM. The traditional rite of ash imposition signifies human fragility and mortality, inviting reflections on personal conversion, drawing on the biblical reminder from Genesis: "Remember that you are dust and to dust you shall return." Additionally, the ashes used in the ceremonies are derived from the burned palm fronds from the previous year's Palm Sunday.

In nearby Jundiaí, the Nossa Senhora do Desterro Cathedral will also host four Ash Wednesday masses at 7 AM, 9:30 AM, noon, and 7 PM, consistent with the observance taking place across the region. This widespread practice underscores the cultural and religious significance of the Lenten season in the community, encouraging participation in reflection and renewal ahead of Easter festivities.