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ALABASTER – The Episcopal Church of the Holy Spirit is offering residents another way to receive ashes on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 26, is they are not able to make it to a traditional church service.

Ashes to Go will take place from 7-9 a.m. on Ash Wednesday in the parking lot of the church, which is located at 858 Kent Dairy Road, said Father Eric Mancil. This is the church’s first year offering this option to the community.

On Ash Wednesday, many Christians receive a cross of ashes on their forehead.

“Our traditional church services will take place at noon and 7 p.m. on Ash Wednesday, but I realize that not everyone can fit attending one of the traditional services into their schedule,” Mancil said. “Ashes to Go allows people to stop by on their way to work or school to receive ashes.”

Mancil said all are welcome and residents do not have to be Episcopalian to receive ashes at the event.

Ash Wednesday begins the yearly observance of the season of Lent, which lasts 40 days and 40 nights, not including Sundays. Mancil said the ashes are a symbol of mortality that reminds believers that God created humans from the dust of the earth and to the dust all people will return. Mancil added that Ash Wednesday is a reminder that people should use their time wisely and in a way that is pleasing to God.