What an amazing and holy time it was this Wednesday. This is just a quick note of thanks to everyone who participated and made this possible. Thank you for taking the time, courage, energy, thank you for taking the risk to do something out of the ordinary. We imposed ashes on about 250-300 people - but more importantly we reached out into our community to remind people of God's love for us. With simple words and a well known act we reached into car windows and baby carriages. We battled through language barriers (yes next year we will take a Spanish translation with us), accepted hugs from strangers, watched as worried/ tired/worn faces brightened with a knowing smile. We responded when eyes brimmed with tears at the reminder that we are each beloved children of God. We reached out and walked into peoples lives for a few seconds and I for one was moved, who knows how many of these folks were moved as well. Go out now and tell the stories from this year in our congregation: The cops who quizzed us about the theology of ashes; The young woman who came back for ashes at least two times; The burst of laughter when someone realized the smoke/ cross/ robes were not a sign of protest; The child who questioned what was happening to mom and then proclaimed loudly "I love Jesus;" and more. Tell the stories and, perhaps, reflect with gratitude that God is present and working in our world through us. peace -
Karen
