A prayer for Ash Wednesday from the Church of England

Almighty and everlasting God,
you hate nothing that you have made
and 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 receive from you, the God of all mercy,
perfect remission and forgiveness;
through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord,
who is alive and reigns with you,
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever.
Amen.

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent.

Today, many will attend church services and have a cross of ash traced on their foreheads. This acts as a reminder of our mortality and need for reconciliation with God.

Find an Ash Wednesday service at https://t.co/R8wMSEkNUx. pic.twitter.com/m5DBIVcChz

— The Church of England (@churchofengland) March 5, 2025