During a global pandemic, creativity is a key. In addition to online and outdoor worship services for Ash Wednesday, many parishes offered “Ashes to Go” for those who were interested in the imposition of ashes.
In Liverpool, at St. Matthew’s Church, the Rev. Paul Frolick places ashes on the forehead of a young parishioner in the front loop drive-through.
The Rev. Renee Tembeckjian of Trinity Church in Fayetteville offers ashes and receives a much-appreciated package of hand-warmers from a parishioner!
The Rev. Philip Major of St. Paul’s Church in downtown Syracuse gives ashes to community members who both walk and drive through. After receiving ashes, stop to say hello!
In Watertown, where it’s surely a tad bit colder (even for Central New York), the Rev. Molly Payne-Hardin gathers with a very dedicated company-keeper, Andrew, while she offers ashes to go. This is Andrew’s second year hanging with Mother Molly on Ash Wednesday!
At St. John’s, Ithaca, Rev. Megan Castellan imposes ashes in the parking lot, with the sun shining!
The Rev. Nelson Gaetz of the Church of St. Mark the Evangelist in Syracuse is joined by warden Gary Neddo offering ashes to go to those choosing to walk and drive through the parking lot on a cold, but sunny day!
In Camillus, Rev. Jon White offered two outdoor (and live-streamed) Ash Wednesday services with ashes to go. It was chilly, but as parishioner Julie Carpenter put it: “it was 19-20 degrees outside but there was warmth in our hearts.” (photos courtesy of Carolyn Muratore).