Why “Ashes to Go”?

Ashes are an ancient sign of penitence. From the Middle Ages, it became the custom to begin Lent by being marked in ash with the sign of the cross. The reminder that we are dust turns our attention to the creative power of God, and God’s ability to heal the brokenness in our lives when we offer that brokenness to God. That turning to God is the work of Lent, preparation for the celebration of Easter.

We’re offering ashes on the street corner today because that reminder of need, humility, and healing shouldn’t be confined to a church building. We probably need it more when we are in the middle of our daily routine! The ashes we receive here are to remind us throughout the day of our need for God, and of God’s call to us.

There is much more to the beginning of Lent…