Ash Wednesday Service
February 17
February 17
7 pm
Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of Lent, derives its name from the ancient practice of marking the foreheads of worshipers with ashes from the burned palm branches of the previous year.
● Ashes are Old Testament symbols of sadness and humility. Job, in the midst of all his troubles, cried out to God from the ash heap. (Job 2:8).
● The ashes symbolize the Christian’s intent to repent of sins, to accept purification from the Lord, and to make a public witness of one’s faith in Christ as Lord and Savior.
● Since Ash Wednesday is the beginning of Lent, the ashes symbolize one’s intention to deepen his or her spiritual life. Lent is a time for spiritual renewal and growth in dedication and service.
