Ashes to Go

On February 22, 2023 from 12:00PM - 1:00PM, St. Stephen's Lutheran Church is offering “Ashes to Go” for anyone looking to observe Ash Wednesday on a busy schedule. Anyone who wants it can drive through the church parking lot, conveniently located at 230 N. Evergreen Avenue inWoodbury, NJ, to receive a cross and a prayer.

Ash Wednesday is a day when Christians mark the beginning of Lent by receiving a cross of ashes on their foreheads. Christians prepare for the Easter holiday by observing Lent, a season of prayer, fasting, and charitable works.

“Ashes have always been a symbol of death in many cultures,” says Pastor Joseph Graumann, “receiving this cross reminds us that we are dust and to dust we shall return.”

People who wish to receive a cross can drive into the parking lot, receive their ash, and drive along to their day. Those who don’t want ashes are still welcome to receive a prayer or blessing.

“It can be hard to fit my faith into my busy schedule,” says Jack Bryant, a member of the church, “But having ashes to go allows me to pause for prayer and continue on my day.”

St. Stephen’s is also offering worship services at 11:00 AM and 7:00 PM that day to mark the occasion, and they will be offering a full schedule of observances for Holy Week, marking the end of Lent and the beginning of Easter.