On Wednesday, Feb. 14, Christians around the world will observe Ash Wednesday. Ash Wednesday marks the first day, or the start of the season of Lent leading up to Easter Sunday and the resurrection of Christ.

Lent is a time when many Christians prepare for Easter by observing a period of fasting, repentance, moderation and spiritual discipline.

The use of ashes, in the sign of a cross on one’s forehead, is a sign of mortality and repentance and has a long history in Jewish and Christian worship. Historically, ashes have signified purification and sorrow for one’s sins.

Ada First United Methodist Church would like to invite the community to observe this meaningful experience with the convenience of a “Drive-Thru” Ash Wednesday service.

Pastor Brandi Rigsby and others from the congregation will offer a short reading and the imposition of ashes under the church’s drive-thru canopy on Highland Street.

The drive-thru imposition of ashes will be offered from 7:30-9 a.m., 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., and 5:30-6:30 p.m.