Ash Wednesday 2013

Today is Ash Wednesday, the day on the church calendar that marks the beginning of Lent. Many churches celebrate with services, including the imposition of ashes.  I will participate in this at the Hospital.

The church of my membership, a Baptist church, has a special service tonight I wish I could go to.  Its a service of Contrition and Thanksgiving. we have ashes and Lord's Supper. I will be at work. 

The meaning of the ashes.  Its a symbol of sinfulness, but also healing because if you feel ashes in your fingers there is an oil substance to them.  Oil is a symbol of healing. Much can be said of this and the meaning of ashes.  In the past few years Ash Wednesday has been celebrated across denominations and in various ways.  I think this is a good thing. I will miss my churches service.

 

Welcome February! Friday This and That

Wow its already the first of February! For many reasons I welcome February every year with a sigh of relief and smile.  Its still winter, but around here it marks a move toward spring.  When I had a yard to play in, there were always things that needed to be done in the garden, mostly cleaning, winter feeding.  Alas no yard to play in, but I do have a small piece of dirt area I can plant flowers. that will need cleaning, but not yet.

February is packed with all kinds of things to look forward. It's Black History Month for starters.  I remember in school the recognitions and lessons we had for February. its also known as the heart month, and the looove month! Then there is Mardi Gras, Fat Tuesday, the last few years I have gone to IHOP on Fat Tuesday and had crepes. My mother always made Crepes for Mardi Gras. I might try to make my own this year.  That week is a full week, with World Day of the Sick, Shrove Tuesday, Ash Wednesday, followed by Valentines Day.

The Health System I work for always does something special for World Day of the Sick.  Usually some kind of service.  This Ash Wednesday I will be working, so I will be participating in the distribution of ashes.  Not sure how that is going to work out but we shall see.

Then Valentines day!  I read where every Valentines day, we spend millions of dollars on candy, cards, flowers,  gifts, and alcohol. Not to mention  money spent on a night out on the town.  So many millions of pounds of chocolate, gallons of wine, in all Valentines day is a very profitable day for many.


So its now February!  Much to look forward too.