Ash Wednesday

An Anglican Ash Wednesday service marks the beginning of Lent, a season of reflection and repentance in the Christian liturgical calendar. The service typically takes place in the evening and features a somber and contemplative atmosphere.

A notable element of the service is the imposition of ashes, which takes place after the sermon. The clergy prepare ashes from burned palm branches, which are traditionally mixed with a small amount of oil. Congregants come forward to receive a sign of the cross on their foreheads, accompanied by the words, “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return,” or a similar phrase. This ritual serves as a poignant reminder of human mortality and the call to repentance.

Throughout the service, the focus remains on humility, self-examination, and the preparation of the heart for the journey ahead towards Easter.

Ash Wednesday Prayer:

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: Create and make in us new and contrite hearts, that we, worthily lamenting our sins and acknowledging our wretchedness, may obtain of you, the God of all mercy, perfect remission and forgiveness; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.