Ash Wednesday marks the start of observation of Lent, the most solemn time of the Christian Year.
Ashes are an ancient sign of penitence: from the Middle Ages it became the custom to begin Lent by marking Christians with the sign of the cross in ash on their foreheads.
Lent is traditionally marked by self-examination, fasting and preparation for Easter. It is a time when Christians reflect on the biblical account of Jesus in the wilderness (Luke 4:1-13).
Ash Wednesday services will be at 9:30am and 7:30pm. A special Ash Wednesday service for families with children and/or teens is held at 6:30pm. The imposition of ashes and the Eucharist will be part of all three services.