Join us for a variety of reflective opportunities, with the imposition of ashes, on the first day of Lent, the season of self-reflection and penitence preceding the joyous celebration of Easter.
Since ancient times, the Christian community has observed a time of self-reflection in preparation for the celebration of Easter. This season lasted 40 days, in imitation of Jesus’ forty days in the wilderness before his active ministry began. Originally this practice was aimed primarily for new candidates for baptism, which was a sign of entrance into the church community. However, it also became a time for all members of the church to reflect once again on the attitudes of the heart that motivate our actions towards ourselves and our neighbour.
In our Ash Wednesday worship services we will combine prayers both ancient and modern, senses of taste, touch, sight and sound, as we seek in this season a fresh gateway to reconciliation—a healing of relationship with neighbour, family and within ourselves.
Services on Ash Wednesday
8:30-10 am — Ashes on the Avenue: Canon Craig will be present on Oak Bay Avenue to offer the imposition of ashes on this threshold day of the church year. Look for him at the community notice board in front of the municipal hall.
11:30 am — Meditative Eucharist with the Imposition of Ashes (in the Chapel, entrance through the Memorial Garden)
7:00 pm — Eucharist with the Imposition of Ashes (in the Chapel, entrance through the Memorial Garden)
[Photo by Ahna Ziegler on Unsplash]