In the pace and pressure of modern life, many people struggle to make space for quiet reflection and a moment of connection with God. On Ash Wednesday, Bishop Fiona offered people in the centre of Wells, the opportunity to take time in their busy lives to think about and mark the start of Lent. She was joined by Tim Stevens, Precentor, Wells Cathedral and Kate Scott, Bishop’s Chaplain in the Market Square on market day, to offer them the opportunity to take part in the Ashing Service which takes place at the beginning of Lent.
Many local residents, traders and visitors joined with her to pause, pray, reflect and receive the sign of the cross with ashes on their forehead, or hand. There was also the option to receive the cross on a printed card which they could take home with them. The ashes, are usually made from palm crosses used in the previous year’s Palm Sunday. Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, the 40-day period in the lead up to Easter and is a chance to slow down and be more intentional about giving our time and priorities to God.
Sharing why the ashes were being offered to people outside, Bishop Fiona said: “It was wonderful to take the offer of God’s love and forgiveness out to people where they are, where they are going about their ordinary business, just like Jesus did. He was frequently found meeting people in the marketplace, in their homes, or places of work - going to where they are to reach them with the love of God.”
Many of those who joined the service in the centre of Wells said they were pleased to have the opportunity to mark the start of Lent in this way together.