Ash Wednesday
Almighty and everlasting God, who hatest nothing that thou hast made and dost forgive the sins of all those who are penitent: Create and make in us new and contrite hearts, that we, worthily lamenting our sins and acknowledging our wretchedness, may obtain of thee, the God of all mercy, perfect remission and forgiveness; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
5:30 p.m. | High Altar
In the earliest centuries of the Church, newcomers were baptized into the Church at Easter, the great celebration of the Resurrection, the conquest of death and the beginning of new life. These catechumens were prepared for this event by a time of instruction and prayer and self-denial. It was believed that all this helped to make them more spiritually mobile and agile. And so Lent began as a period when people were diligently preparing for a new life with God.
We invite those of you watching this service online to invite Jesus into your hearts during Holy Communion by making an Act of Spiritual Communion.
My Jesus,
I believe that you are present in the Most Holy Sacrament.
I love you above all things,
and I desire to receive you into my soul.
Since I cannot at this moment
receive you sacramentally,
come at least spiritually into my heart.
I embrace you as if you were already there and unite myself wholly to you.
Never permit me to be separated from you.
Amen.
Resources
Ash-Wednesday-12pm-and-530pmConcerts at Saint Thomas 2024-2025 Season Overview
Saint Thomas Church Self Guided Tour
