
Ash Wednesday Service
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent in the Christian calendar, observed 46 days before Easter. During the service, attendees receive ashes, often made from burned palm branches, applied to their foreheads in the shape of a cross. This symbolizes repentance and mortality, reminding individuals of the need for reflection and spiritual renewal. The service typically includes prayers, scripture readings, and a focus on penance and self-discipline. It encourages participants to prepare for Easter through fasting, prayer, and acts of charity, fostering a deeper connection to their faith.