Ash Wednesday: entering the way of Lent

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, a forty-day season of preparation for Easter in the Christian calendar. It is a day of honesty, prayer, and reflection, when Christians gather to acknowledge human frailty and to turn again towards God.

At St George the Martyr Church, Ash Wednesday is observed with simple, prayerful liturgies that are open to everyone, whether you attend church regularly or are simply curious about the meaning of the day.

Low Mass 8.30am

Low Mass 1pm

Choral Mass 7.30pm

What happens on Ash Wednesday?

The central act of Ash Wednesday is the imposition of ashes. Ashes are placed on the forehead in the shape of a cross with the words:

“Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.”

This ancient gesture is a moment of truth and grounding, a reminder that our lives are finite, precious, and held by God. For many people, Ash Wednesday offers a rare pause in a busy city, a chance to step back and reflect on what really matters.

Why do Christians receive ashes?

Ashes symbolise humility, repentance, and renewal. They remind us that we do not sustain ourselves by our own strength alone. Lent begins by naming our limits, so that we can rediscover trust, grace, and hope.

Ash Wednesday sets the tone for Lent as a season of slowing down, letting go of what clutters our lives, and paying closer attention to God, to others, and to ourselves.

Ash Wednesday services in Borough

Many churches, including St George the Martyr, offer services at different times of day so that people can attend before work, during a lunch break, or in the evening.

You are welcome to attend whether or not you receive ashes, and whether or not you consider yourself religious.

Is Ash Wednesday only for churchgoers?

No. Ash Wednesday often draws people who rarely attend church, as well as those who come every week. Some come because the day feels meaningful. Others come because they are searching for stillness, perspective, or a way to mark a turning point in the year.

There is no expectation that you believe a certain set of things. Simply being present is enough.

Visiting St George the Martyr on Ash Wednesday

St George the Martyr, Borough is a historic Anglican church in South London, a short walk from Borough Market and London Bridge. On Ash Wednesday, the church is open to all who wish to pray, reflect, or attend one of the services marking the beginning of Lent.

Ash Wednesday is an invitation to us all ; to pause, to be honest, and to begin again.