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Feb 16, 2012 | Jeanie Sablatura

St. David's Takes Ash Wednesday to the Streets of Austin

St. David’s Episcopal Church will be participating in a project known as “Ashes To Go” when it takes to the streets of Austin on February 22 offering ashes to busy commuters and others who may not have time, or the initial inclination, to observe this day.

 

“We’re going to stand at 6th and Congress - one of Austin’s busiest pedestrian intersections - and offer ashes to anyone who is interested,” said the Rev. David Boyd, Rector. “This isn’t about forcing religion on someone or aimed at making people feel uncomfortable. It’s about taking our faith out of the church and being present in the everyday places where our faith and lives intersect. It’s about welcoming everyone into Lent which is a time to grow in knowledge, connection and love of God through soul-searching, repentance and reflection.”

 

The first Ashes To Go was done in 2007 by St. John’s Episcopal Church in St. Louis Missouri. The response was overwhelming prompting St. John’s to continue the project and share with other churches their mission of “coming out from behind the comfortable pews and doors to be in the places where the rubber meets the road.” 

 

St. David’s will offer Ashes To Go beginning at 8:30 a.m. and then again at 11:30 a.m. at 6th and Congress. We will stay as long as needed. As always, St. David’s will hold its regular Ash Wednesday services at 7 a.m., Noon, 5:30 and 7 p.m. in the church. All are welcome to join in these more formal services.

 

About St. David’s: St. David’s was established in 1847 and is one of the oldest Episcopal churches in the country. With 2,400 members, St. David’s strives to be an inclusive community committed to worship, fellowship, Christian formation and outreach in the Austin community. St. David’s offers seven services each Sunday and prayer services during the week.