Holy Spirit Episcopal Church to offer ‘Ashes to Go’ on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 17

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GULF SHORES, Alabama — Holy Spirit Episcopal Church will offer “Ashes to Go,” a different approach to a centuries-old Christian tradition, on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 17, from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at 616 W. Fort Morgan Road, Gulf Shores.

Holy Spirit Episcopal Church is part of a nationwide movement that has clergy and lay people placed in many different locations offering to mark the foreheads of interested passers-by with ashes and invite them to receive forgiveness and renewal. In the Christian tradition, Ash Wednesday marks the start of the holy season of Lent, a time for reflection and repentance in preparation for the celebration of Easter.

For centuries, Christians have received a cross of ashes on the forehead at the beginning of the season as a reminder of mortal failings and an invitation to receive God’s forgiveness. Ashes to Go provides the opportunity to participate in that tradition for people who have lost their connection to a church or have never participated before.

“We are offering Ashes to Go to our community as a symbol of God’s love for each of us. Lent is a time of introspection and contriteness prior to remembering Christ’s death and celebrating His resurrection at Easter,” said Father Will Lory, rector of Holy Spirit Episcopal Church.  “Particularly during the pandemic, it has been hard for many of us to make connections with each other and share the closeness so many of us seek. It is our intention that this be an opportunity to spread the hope of God’s love and forgiveness with our community. It’s easy to join us. Just drive up and we will greet you in your car.”

Face masks will be worn and social distancing will be practiced for the safety of all in our community.

For more information about Ashes to Go at Holy Spirit please email holyspiritep@gmail.com or call 251-968-5988. More information about the Ashes to Go movement can be found at www.AshesToGo.org.

 

About Holy Spirit

Holy Spirit Episcopal Church, located at 616 West Fort Morgan Road in Gulf Shores, is part of the Diocese of the Central Gulf Coast. The Rev. Will Lowry serves as rector. Holy Spirit welcomes all and seeks to deliver innovative, life-transforming ministry throughout the coastal community. Virtual and in-person weekly services are held Sundays at 10 a.m. Please note that a reservation is requested to attend in-person services to ensure social distancing safety. More information is available at holyspiritep.com or 251-968-5988.