Ash Wednesday – 6th March 2019
Ashes are an ancient sign of penitence; from medieval times it became the custom to begin Lent by being marked in ash on the forehead with the sign of the cross.
The period of Lent, leading up to Easter was traditionally seen as a good opportunity for people to prepare for their baptism. Today this period of forty days is a time of deep reflection for many Christians – a time for fasting, prayer and works of love. The calculation of the forty days has varied considerably in Christian history. It is now usual in the West to count them continuously to the end of Holy Week (not including Sundays).
This evening at Christ Church, Derry Hill there is a service of Holy Communion and the Imposition of Ashes at 7.30pm; the beginning of Lent.
Perhaps we could journey together through Lent? There is a useful Prayer booklet produced by Salisbury Diocese which includes a reading, reflection, prayer and action for each day of Lent. Pick one up from church – they are free to everyone.
Or you might like to sign up to the daily Lent reflections on the Church of England website www.churchofengland.org/pilgrim
I’ve asked several people how they are keeping Lent this year and there was such a variety of answers that I thought I would try to mention one each day through Lent. If you would like to share your Lenten discipline, why not send me an email lindac@mardenvale.org.uk and let me know?
So, today’s action is being marked with a cross of ashes and reflecting on what it means to ‘fast’ from injustice…
“Is this not the fast that I choose;
to loose the bonds of injustice…
Is it not to share your bread with the hungry,
and bring the homeless poor into your house;
when you see the naked, to cover them,
and not to hide yourself from your own kin…” Isaiah 58:6-7