Parking Lot Prayers & Ashes
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Vestavia Hills United Methodist 2061 Kentucky Avenue, Vestavia Hills, Alabama 35216
Ash Wednesday (February 14th), celebrated by many Christian denominations,marks the first day of the 40-day season of Lent. To better accommodate the needs ofour city’s residents and visitors, Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church is providingits annual Parking Lot Prayers and Ashes from 6:00am-8:00am. Rain or shine, twoclergy members will be stationed in the VHUMC west parking lot, offering to driversand pedestrians the traditional imposition of ashes on participants’ foreheads orhands, along with a traditional Ash Wednesday blessing. If a recipient does not wantto receive the ashes, a prayer of blessing will be joyfully offered.According to the Gospel accounts in the Bible, Jesus began preparation for his earthlyministry by fasting 40 days in the wilderness. Hence, the 40-day Lenten period mirrorsthat as an annual time of preparation by Christians for Easter Sunday (April 1, 2018).Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church is located just east of US 31 on KentuckyAvenue. In addition to the Parking Lot Prayers and Ashes from 6:00am-8:00am forthose walking in the neighborhood or driving by in their vehicles, VHUMC will offeran imposition of ashes service in the Rutland-Memorial Chapel from 7:00am-8:00amand a traditional Ash Wednesday worship service in the Sanctuary, beginning at6:00pm. All are welcome to come and share in this special time.