Thousands of commuters will be greeted by white-robed clergy as they exit the Septa trains this Wednesday at Market East Station. The Rev. Claire Nevin-Field and the Rev. Sean Lanigan will distribute ashes from 7:30–9 a.m. on Wednesday, February 14.
This will be the sixth year that St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, located at Third and Pine Streets in Philadelphia, has participated in the nationwide movement called “Ashes to Go” (www.AshesToGo.org). Last year, several hundred commuters stopped to receive ashes from St. Peter’s clergy.
In the Christian tradition, Ash Wednesday marks the start of the holy season of Lent, a time for reflection and repentance in preparation for the celebration of Easter. For centuries, Christians have received a cross of ashes on the face at the beginning of that season as a reminder of mortal failings and an invitation to receive God’s forgiveness.
Media is invited to attend Ashes To Go and interview clergy. Please contact Lauri Cielo at [email protected].
ABOUT ST. PETER’S CHURCH
Founded in 1761, St. Peter’s is an active and growing Episcopal parish located at 3rd and Pine Streets in the Society Hill neighborhood of Philadelphia. The historic church was designed and built by architect Robert Smith on land donated by the Penn family. The original high-backed box pews were frequented by George and Martha Washington, painter Charles Willson Peale, war hero Stephen Decatur, and Absalom Jones, the first black Episcopal priest. A vibrant community of faith for the past 250 years, St. Peter’s Church sponsors a food cupboard serving more than 180 families a week, an active choral program for children and adults, and numerous fellowship and education groups. Whoever you are, and wherever you find yourself on the journey of faith, you are welcome at St. Peter’s. For more information about St. Peter’s Church,visit www.stpetersphila.org or call 215-925-5968.
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