This morning, Catholic faith adherents in Manaus participated in Ash Wednesday services, which signal the beginning of Lent and the official commencement of the Fraternity Campaign 2026. The campaign's theme this year is "Fraternity and Housing," with the motto "He came to dwell among us." The aim is to promote reflection and tangible actions addressing the right to housing, a critical issue affecting many Brazilians.

During the mass services held throughout Manaus, participants engaged in singing, prayers, and the traditional rite of imposing ashes. For Catholics, Lent is a time of preparation leading up to Easter, characterized by practices such as fasting, prayer, and charity. This observance seeks to deepen believers' spiritual lives and foster a sense of community and compassion among parishioners.

Technologist Suellen Gato expressed her hopes for this Lenten season to be filled with renewed faith and solidarity. She emphasized her anticipation for personal growth through faith, love, humility, prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Father Luiz Marcolino remarked on the campaign's theme, which brings attention to the plight of individuals living in precarious housing situations, thereby highlighting the importance of addressing housing as a fundamental right in the community.