Ash Wednesday brings Christians together
Photos by Tom Rivers
ALBION – Pastors from four churches in the Albion area led an Ash Wednesday service tonight at the First United Methodist Church.
About 40 people attended the service, which included music by the Joyful Good Shepherd Ringers, a group that includes Diane Scharping, pictured in front.
Ash Wednesday was celebrated by millions of Christians around the world today. They received an ash marking on their foreheads in the shape of a cross, an outward symbol that Christians have been marked by God, said David Beach, pastor of the Gaines Carlton Community Church.
Ash Wednesday is the first day of Lent, a time of reflection, repentance and sacrifice leading up to Easter.
Jack Laskowski, pastor of the United Methodist Church in Albion, delivered the message during the service. Marie Follett, the organist, is pictured in back.
Other pastors that participated in the service include Jon Rieley-Goddard of the Gaines Congregational United Church of Christ and Edward John Devine of the First Baptist Church in Albion.
