Ash Wednesday

Lent begins with a solemn call to fasting and repentance as we begin our journey to the baptismal waters of Easter.  The lectionary readings appointed for the day of Ash Wednesday (Joel 2:1-2, 12-17; Psalm 51:1-17; 2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10; and Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21) remind us “now is the acceptable time to return to the Lord.”  During Lent, the people of God are called to reflect on the meaning of their baptism into Christ’s death and resurrection.  The sign of ashes suggests our human mortality and frailty, but the ashes also invite us to make each day a new beginning as we are washed in God’s mercy and forgiveness. Ash Wednesday worship was held on February 14th at First English at 6:30 PM. There was Holy Communion and the Imposition of Ashes.