Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, a period when many Christians prepare for Easter through fasting, repentance, and spiritual discipline. The observance of Ash Wednesday dates back to at least the 10th century, where Christians would have ashes imposed on their heads to signify the start of Lent. The practice of marking the forehead with a cross of ashes is a more recent adaptation. The ashes serve as a symbol of our mortality and a call to repentance, reminding us of the biblical theme that "you are dust, and to dust you shall return" (Genesis 3:19). This tradition emphasizes our sinfulness before God and our human mortality, both of which are triumphed through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

At Lewis Memorial UMC, we celebrate with an Ash Wednesday Service in our historic chapel that includes the imposition of ashes.