St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Mount Vernon has announced it will host an "Ashes to Go" event on March 5th, Ash Wednesday, from noon to 2 p.m. outside the church. The event will be led by Rev. Charles Wilson, according to a press release.
According to St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Mount Vernon, "Ashes to Go," a practice initiated in 2007 by Rev. Teresa K. M. Danieley in St. Louis, allows individuals to receive ashes in public spaces as part of the Ash Wednesday observance. This practice provides an opportunity for reflection and spiritual connection, especially for those who may not attend traditional church services.
Wilson, Rector of St. Paul’s, will be offering "Ashes to Go" in front of the church on March 5th from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. St. Paul’s Episcopal Church is located at the corner of East Gay and High Streets in Mount Vernon. In addition to "Ashes to Go," the church will hold traditional Ash Wednesday services at 8 a.m. in the Parish House Chapel and at 6:30 p.m. in the church. All are welcome to participate in either or both events, according to the church.
"By doing this, we will be offering a reminder of need, humility, and healing that shouldn’t be confined to a church building," Wilson said, according to the release. "If anything, it is probably more true we need this reminder most when we are in the middle of our daily business!"
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church is focused on strengthening its connection to Scripture and Christ through various community programs such as providing meals and holiday support through the Turn-the-Tide program and founding a men’s homeless shelter in 2008. Recently, it has offered a Women’s Shelter during winter months and hosts "Sunday Sanctuary" open houses for homeless individuals while also providing space for Alcoholics Anonymous meetings and supporting local groups like Interchurch Social Services and the Mount Vernon Players theater group.
