Ash Wednesday begins the season of Lent with a public act of confession. This holy day emphasizes our need for God’s saving grace. Ash Wednesday holds in tension a dual reality: the ways we fall short and the good news of God’s ever-present grace and love. Ashes are an ancient symbol of repentance, sorrow, and sacrifice. They are also a reminder that we were created by God from dust. This reminder comes at the beginning of the season of Lent as we consider a new season of spiritual growth and preparation before Easter. For many, Lent is the opportunity to consider our own spiritual practices in prayer, self-examination, and by taking on other spiritual disciplines. It all begins with the reminder of who we are and whose we are on Ash Wednesday.

Join us at Noon in Cole Chapel or at 6:30 pm in the Sanctuary for the imposition of ashes. The 6:30 pm service will be live-streamed at fumcdenton.com/live and on Facebook. For those of you joining from home, you are welcome to use any other household item as ashes—some popular choices include glitter, chalk, spices, and dirt for self-imposition at home. We hope you will join us for worship as we begin the season of Lent together!