Ash Wednesday begins the season of Lent, a time when many Christians more intentionally reflect upon what it means to be mortal and to have a relationship with an eternal God. Ash Wednesday has ancient roots as a general rite in Christian churches since the 10th century, employing the even more ancient reminder that in the book of Genesis. According to Genesis, God formed human beings from the dust and that we shall also return to dust. (Genesis 2:7 and 3:19) In this quiet, reflective service we will offer the imposition of ashes with the sign of the cross on the forehead or hand. These ashes, a sign of mortality are mixed with oil, a sign of healing.
As the ashes are placed on the forehead, words such as these are spoken: “Remember that you are dust and to dust you shall return,” recalling God’s words to Adam in Genesis 3:19, or “Repent, and believe the gospel” recalling the message of both John the Baptist and Jesus (Mark 1:15).
Through the service of ashes on the first day of Lent, we come before God recognizing our humanity, repenting of our sin, and remembering who we are and who we can be. You are invited to join us at our Ash Wednesday Service, March 2, 2022 at 7pm in the sanctuary. Come observe a Holy Lent with us.