Families welcome at Ash Wednesday worship at Wheaton’s Gary UMC

New this year, on Ash Wednesday, March 5, families with young children are invited to an interactive worship experience at 5:30 p.m. at Gary United Methodist Church, 224 N. Main St. in Wheaton.

Families will get their hands dirty making “resurrection gardens” while exploring the significance of receiving ashes. Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, a 40-day season of prayer and repentance that prepares Christians for Good Friday and Easter Sunday.

Other ways to experience Ash Wednesday include “Ashes to Go” at the College Avenue train station in Wheaton from 7 to 8 a.m. The Rev. Daniel Cochran will provide ashes and a short prayer. You can also receive “Ashes to Go” in the church parking lot from 9 to 10 a.m.

Traditional Ash Wednesday worship at the church will be at 7 p.m. in the sanctuary.

Gary United Methodist Church in Wheaton has celebrated deep roots in the community since 1853. The church has vibrant music, kids, youth and adult ministries, plus opportunities for local, national and global missions. The church offers worship at 9 and 11:11 a.m. In-between services, there’s Sunday school for all ages, a coffee fellowship hour, plus the chapel is available for prayer and reflection. For information, go to garychurch.org or contact the church office at office@garychurch.org.