White Oak's Faith Lutheran Church hosting annual "Ash and Dash" event for start of Lent
It's Ash Wednesday, which marks the official start of Lent, a 40-day period observed by many Christians worldwide.
Churches throughout the Pittsburgh area will be holding Ash Wednesday services, but Faith Lutheran Church in White Oak is hosting its annual "Ash and Dash" for people on the go.
This will be the church's 11th year of "Ash and Dash" at Faith Lutheran, where people can get ashes in their vehicle before heading off to work or school.
For many, it's a quick stop with deep meaning.
"This is just such a convenience for everybody to do this. It's a blessing," said Gina Andrejcak.
And convenience is key. Between work, school and packed schedules, many say this allows them to prioritize their faith.
"Trying to renew things in my life and get a fresh beginning. Lenten season is the best time to do that," said Scott Smith.
"We are carrying on a tradition from Pastor Michael Ryan, who was a longtime pastor here prior to my call here, and he started what's called 'ash and dash,'" said Reverend Dr. Wendy Farone, pastor of the Faith Lutheran Church. "It's really a catchy title."
Dr. Farone said the important part of the tradition is that it allows people to drive through and get blessed with ashes as a reminder of the Lenten season leading up to Easter.
"Those ashes are to remind us to reflect and to repent upon on this time," Dr. Farone said.
Faith Lutheran is offering the drive-through ashes starting at 6 a.m. and going until 9 a.m. in the church's parking lot along Lincoln Way.
Dr. Farone said she feels the event has become very popular over the years because the early receiving of ashes allows people to get the day started and on the right track.
"That way, folks recognize the beginning of a period of time," Dr. Farone said. "It's not a time of mourning, but a time of reflection."
The church will also be offering ashes inside the church from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and will be holding an Ash Wednesday service at 7 p.m. this evening.
