Ash Wednesday traditions look a little different amidst a pandemic
The imposition of ashes among many Christian faiths dates back to the Old Testament, but even the most sacred of rituals looked different this year due to COVID-19. Ash Wednesday was observed in a nontraditional way at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Michigan City, where the public was invited to receive ashes in drive-through fashion in the parking lot. The church then livestreamed its Ash Wednesday service for parishioners.
Subdeacon Michael Kunitz distributes ashes to students as part of Ash Wednesday Mass at Marquette Catholic High School in Michigan City. Typically, a cross is traced on the forehead, but this year, ashes were sprinkled on top of heads to avoid physical contact. Receiving ashes is junior Mikayla Moyer, while junior Jenna Kirby waits behind her. The Mass was conducted in the gymnasium to allow for social distancing.
Rev. Mark Reshan, senior pastor at St. Paul, greeted and prayed with each visitor before applying ashes to the foreheads of those who wanted them. In Christian tradition, Ash Wednesday is the start of Lent, which focuses on prayer, fasting and charity. It continues for 40 days (not including Sundays) and culminates on Easter Sunday.
The Most Reverend Robert J. McClory, Bishop of Gary, sprinkles ashes over the head of Rebeca Santoyo, 87, as her daughter, Seferina Martinez, stands behind her during Mass on Wednesday at St. Margaret Mary Church in Hammond. When receiving ashes, parishioners are reminded, “Remember that you are dust and to dust you shall return,” or “Repent and believe in the Gospel.” More photos on page A2.
As they drove through the line, visitors at St. Paul were able to provide both monetary and grocery donations for the food pantry at the Salvation Army of Michigan City, which were collected by church volunteers.
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