We initially started this alternative practice on Ash Wednesday because we were concerned that this was one of the few times most people in our church would be touched directly by a pastoral leader . . . and to make that moment connected to the practice of ashes seemed profoundly unbiblical
As conflict escalates in this country, consider using this prayer on Sunday to pray for peace for our brothers and sisters around the world. In the midst of war and conflict, we join our voices as one to pray for one of our own and for many of God's own.
In my margin notes I wrote, “How comforting to hear an incarnation every week.” And comfort it was until all of the sudden it was my responsibility to be the preacher picking out the human words to clothe the word of God.
