Yesterday, we observed Ash Wednesday across the diocese, making space for reflection, prayer, and repentance. We joined Revd Ian Fellows, Revd Lexi Russell and the team at Wythenshawe who headed out into their town centre to offer Ashes to Go to their local community, creating the short film above which shares an insight into this special occasion.
Ashes to Go were offered in various locations, including at Manchester's Market Street, Canon Slade Secondary School, Royton Town Centre, Bolton Parish Church, and more. Ash Wednesday services were also held at our churches and schools, including St Andrew’s Church in Dearnley, St Paul’s CE School in Withington, and St Nicholas' Church in Burnage.
Many churches offered Ashes to Go alongside their Ash Wednesday services, and staff at St John's House received ashing during Holy Communion. The sign of the cross traced in ash serves as a reminder of our mortality and our need for reconciliation with God.
