Ash Wednesday is a significant event in the Liturgical calendar. It is the first day of Lent, which is the 40 days (not counting Sundays) preceding Easter.
Different denominations recognize Ash Wednesday in different ways. For example, Christ Community Church does not observe it as a separate service. "We believe that everyday should be lived in a spirit of confession and repentance," says Brian Crotts, Associate Pastor.
Other churches observe a formal service where ashes are placed on the forehead in the shape of a cross as a symbol of repentance, humility, confession of sin and remembrance of Christ's sacrifice.
According to Rev. Dr. Dwight D. Shellaway of Christ Lutheran Church (3600 Lawndale Drive), "The mood of the service is that of penitence and reflection upon the quality of one's faith and life. Its goal is to enlist participation in the Lenten discipline which, by its focus upon the mystery of our redemption, should strengthen us by bringing us anew to the gift of Baptism. The Ash Wednesday Liturgy marks the beginning of a penitential discipline which climaxes in the absolution and the peace of the Maundy Thursday Liturgy." The time of the service is 7:30 p.m tonight.
Many Believers choose to give up something that is dear to them during the Lenten season in order to experience, in a very small, yet symbolic way, the sacrifices Jesus Christ made for humankind.
Two other churches observing Ash Wednesday services are Our Lady of Grace and Trinity Church. Please check local churches for times.
If you would like updates from Greensboro Christianity Examiner.com, please click on the "+subscribe" button above this article. If you have news or would like a profile of your church published, please contact Donna Mann at ddmann@triad.rr.com.
Comments
The ashes placed on the forehead, usually in the shape of a cross, are the result of burning palm branches from the celebration of Palm Sunday. Palm Sunday celebrates Christ's entry into Jerusalem, the beginning of the events that led to His crucifixion. The ashes on our forehead can remind us of His triumphal entry into our lives.
Growing up in a pentecostal home I never experienced Ash Wednesday or the Lenten season - we just went straight to Easter. I am grateful to now be observing this and for the first time I am giving up something for Lent. I look forward to taking my father to an Ash Wednesday service tonight for his first experience.
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!