Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the season of Lent, a 40-day period of prayer, fasting, and reflection leading up to Easter. It is a solemn day when we acknowledge our mortality and our need for repentance, remembering the words from Genesis 3:19: “For you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” The ashes we receive on our foreheads symbolize both our sorrow for sin and our hope in Christ’s redeeming love. They are made from the palm leaves in remembrance of Palm Sunday, reminding us of the fleeting nature of worldly glory and the eternal promise found in Jesus. Ash Wednesday is not just about grief over sin, but about the invitation to transformation, as we hear in Joel 2:12: “Return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning.” This day calls us to turn back to God, seeking His mercy and grace.

Lent is a journey—a time of spiritual renewal, self-examination, and drawing closer to God through acts of devotion. Ash Wednesday provides the opportunity to step away from the distractions of daily life and refocus our hearts on Christ. By receiving ashes, we publicly acknowledge our need for God’s forgiveness and the hope of resurrection through Him. It is a powerful way to begin Lent with humility and intention, setting the tone for the weeks ahead as we prepare to celebrate Easter.

We invite you to join us for Ash Wednesday services on Wednesday, March 5, at either 5:30 or 7:00 p.m. Both services will include the imposition of ashes and processional communion, offering a meaningful and reflective start to the Lenten season. Please note that there will be no regular Wednesday night activities. However, high school youth group will gather at the Dolbecs' house (5200 Cornice Drive) following the 7:00 p.m. service.

Wherever you are in your spiritual journey, Ash Wednesday is an opportunity to pause, reflect, and realign your heart with God. We hope you will join us as we begin this sacred season together, embracing the call to repentance and renewal in Christ.