Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently appeared on Fox News with a bold, dark ash cross on his forehead, marking the beginning of Ash Wednesday. This sacred day signals the start of Lent, a solemn period of reflection, repentance, and spiritual preparation leading up to Holy Week and Easter. For millions of Catholics worldwide, the cross of ash serves as a humbling reminder of human mortality and the need for repentance, echoing the biblical message: “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return” (Genesis 3:19).
Rubio, a Cuban American and self-proclaimed devout Catholic, has had a complex religious journey. Though born into a Catholic family, he briefly attended a Mormon church during his youth before returning to Catholicism. Despite also attending a Southern Baptist church while in Florida, he continues to identify as Catholic.
During his appearance, Rubio spoke about the significance of Ash Wednesday, stating, “Today is a day of reflection and humility. For millions of Catholics in America and around the world, it is a reminder of our vulnerability and the importance of doing good.” But what “good” is Rubio speaking of? The only things we hear from him are calls for war, the killing of Palestinians, threats against those who refuse to comply with his political agenda and demands for destruction.
The hypocrisy is glaring. Faith should be a guiding force for peace, compassion, and justice—not a political prop. Those who exploit Christianity for power while advocating violence and oppression betray its core teachings. True faith is not about public displays but about embodying humility, love, and justice in action.
As an Extraordinary Eucharistic Minister, I have personally performed the act of placing the cross on the foreheads of parishioners using my thumb. Let me be clear: it is impossible to create a cross that large and thick in just two seconds, especially when hundreds of people are lined up. In all my years, I have never seen anything like that. This is clearly the work of a makeup artist.
Marco Rubio, along with many Evangelicals who exploit Christianity for political gain, are sinners. Just as some Catholic bishops have denied the Eucharist to President Biden, considering him unrepentant, Rubio too should not receive it. True faith is not a tool for political advantage; it requires sincerity, humility, and repentance. I pray that they find the light and seek true forgiveness.
Sir Rateb Y. Rabie, KCHS. President & CEO
Holy Land Christian Ecumenical Foundation
