Building on the success of last year’s Bishops in Mission, we are carrying out Ashes to Go in as many locations as possible this Ash Wednesday.
Bishop Paul said “Ashes to Go is a way of bringing the church's presence outside of a building and giving an opportunity for people to take a moment to practice their faith as they go about their daily life and work. As we will be in Liverpool city centre, it will allow as many passers-by as possible the chance to receive ashes or a blessing and a prayer. If you see us, please join us!”
The Rector of Liverpool, Canon Dr Crispin Pailing, said, "Ashes to Go connects tradition with people's lives today. For centuries people have come to church on Ash Wednesday to receive ashes on our forehead, but today we all live out our faith in the shopping centre as much as in Church services. If you see us outside on Wednesday, come and say hello: God's blessing is just as valuable when you've got a shopping bag in your hand!"
The locations and timings that have been confirmed at the time of writing are:
Liverpool City Centre – Service in Liverpool Parish Church at 12.15pm. Heading out into the City Centre at 1pm, Church St / Lord St at 1.15pm and outside Lime Street at 1.40pm.
Liverpool Cathedral - 11 am until 3 pm in the main space.
Edge Hill University, Ormskirk - 12 - 1pm.
Crosby Village - 2pm
Bootle strand - Time to be confirmed
Tell us about your plans.
There will be 5000 postcards printed for people to distribute at their Ashes to Go event. The aim is to encourage people to continue to think about God. They can do this by signing up to www.ruleoflife.org.uk or to find their local church at www.achurchnearyou.com
To help us engage with local media and maximise publicity please let us know if you are planning any Ashes to Go events in your parish or deanery. Email communications@liverpool.anglican.org
Postcards are available on a first-come-first-served basis to collect from reception at St James’ House.