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A collection of area churches made the task for those wanting to participate in Ash Wednesday easier this year by setting up shop outdoors in the plaza area of South Pasadena’s Metro light rail station.
Clergy from five churches set out a table next to the famed “Walking Man Statue,” an iconic landmark at Mission Street and Meridian Avenue, welcoming individuals to take part in the first day of Lent, marked by many Christians as a time of reflection and repentance.
On this day, Ash Wednesday, held February 22, the 46-day period leading up to Easter Sunday, Christians receive a cross of ashes on their forehead. Many also take part in fasting, prayer and mourning.
Taking part were Sam Park (ReNew United Methodist Church in South Pasadena); Lincoln Skinner and Justin Berkobien (Oneonta Congregational Church in South Pasadena); Jay and Candy Krueger (Holy Family Church in South Pasadena); David Arcos, Andres and Brooke Figueroa (Mosaic Church in South Pasadena); and Ashley Lynn Hengst (All Saints Church in Pasadena).
“We had many individuals who were so happy that this event was available to them,” said Park.
Ash Wednesday marks the start of Lent, the 46-day period leading up to Easter Sunday. Lent is a season of reflection and repentance for many Christians, particularly for Catholics and Lutherans. It is a time for seeking God’s forgiveness and preparing to receive the grace that Easter brings.
Representatives from the churches, under the umbrella of South Pasadena Clergy Network, sat behind a table draped with cloth reading: “Ashes to Go,” the message further adding, “All are welcome to receive!”
