Almighty God, you have created us out of the dust of the earth: Grant that these ashes may be to us a sign of our mortality and penitence, that we may remember that it is only by your gracious gift that we are given everlasting life; through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen
Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.
– From The Book of Common Prayer
For a great overview of the meaning and symbolism of Ash Wednesday, see my friend Bill Streger’s post on his blog.
Jake,
Great post and pic. I’ve never read that in the Book of Common Prayer before. I blogged about Lent today. Mind if I link to your post over at my blog?
Will
Thanks, Will. I don’t think I’ve ever heard of a blogger that has refused a link! Please feel free to link away. We’ll miss you on Twitter during your fast, but I hope is a time of rejuvenation, renewal, and repurposing.
Also, keep in mind that Sundays are days you can break from your fast in Lenten tradition…so, maybe see you then.
Ohh, neat! A tradition! Gimme more! That’s what makes Christianity really meaningful…spooky-spiritual traditions!
Mark, thanks for your kind words.