Reverend Mark spoke to us during the Ash Wednesday service, asking if everyone had pancakes the day before. He explained that Shrove Tuesday got its name from the tradition of being "shriven" – an old word meaning to confess sins before a priest. After the confession, people would be blessed and then head home to make pancakes, using up eggs and other ingredients that were typically forbidden during Lent, which begins the following day.

Ash Wednesday marks the start of Lent, a season of reflection and preparation for Easter. Lent is a time for fasting, eating simpler meals, and focusing more on prayer and repentance. On this day, people still gather to receive ashes, a symbolic way of acknowledging their flaws and the human tendency to fall short.

For the children who wished to participate, Reverend Mark gently placed an ash cross on their foreheads and said:

"Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return."

This age-old ritual reminds everyone of the fragility of life and the importance of humility and reflection as we journey through the season of Lent.

God our Father, you guide and direct us on our journey through life.

Be with us as we begin our Lenten journey of faith and love.

Help us to grow closer to you during this special holy season.

Help us to do your will each day during Lent.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.