Posted on 02/15/2010 6:01:50 PM PST by marshmallow
Christians mark the beginning of Lent with Ash Wednesday church services and self-reflection.
And it's not just Catholics who are participating.
Ash Wednesday, which is next week, includes the practice of having ashes placed on your forehead. While the ash marking is often associated with Roman Catholicism, Christians of various denominations are increasingly participating in Ash Wednesday services, which are traditionally contemplative and somber.
In the Catholic Church, Ash Wednesday is "a call to do penance for sin," said Lucas Pollice, director of catechesis for the Fort Worth Diocese.
Ellen Lewis, associate minister of University Christian Church in Fort Worth, said it marks a season of reflection and a time to turn one's life around.
"Ashes are a reminder of repentance and our impermanence," she said.
The Ash Wednesday services appeal to many people, experts said.
Lewis said her congregation's service will include worship and reflection around the church's labyrinth. The service will also include Scripture readings and music. Congregants can have ashes placed on their foreheads or hands if they choose. The practice helps church members begin the season of Lent, which culminates with Easter.
" Lent the word literally means turn around," Lewis said. "We look at ourselves. Where we need to turn around or what in our lives we need to turn around that allows us to return to faithfulness."
Pollice said that churches overflow on Ash Wednesday and that congregants don't attend out of obligation -- as is often the case with days like Christmas.
"I think it attracts people because it is something very tangible," Pollice said.
By Ash Wednesday, most Catholics have also decided whether they are going to give up something or take up something that will help them grow spiritually. Children typically give up sodas, candy and video games, Pollice said.
(Excerpt) Read more at star-telegram.com ...
The Methodist church of my youth did all the Easter season rites. I liked palm Sunday as a kid because we got to take home palm fronds which I thought was cool.
Fat Tuesday tomorrow! Pazcki Day in Hamtramck!
http://www.hamtramck.us/
http://www.hamtramck.us/events/pages/paczki.php
We may be snowed out from services this Wed, in my area. Too much snow.
“Let’s Move” Tuesday! LOL! I’ll keep that in mind as I’m quaffing boombas of Polish beer and munching on paczki tomorrow!
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i’m methodist. our pastor has asked that we give up something for lent. usually it is just our catholic friends that do this but i have encouraged my husband and kids to give up something...i am giving up swearing which is a biggy for me.
I’m giving up the internet for Lent.
Have a wonderful Lenten season everyone.
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