KAPAA — Rev. Ryan Newman said if he was able to impose ashes to 10 people in four hours Wednesday, he would be happy. So the rector of the All Saints’ Episcopal Church and Preschool in Kapaa stationed himself along
KAPAA — Rev. Ryan Newman said if he was able to impose ashes to 10 people in four hours Wednesday, he would be happy.
So the rector of the All Saints’ Episcopal Church and Preschool in Kapaa stationed himself along Kuhio Highway at the entrance to the preschool, armed with ashes and signs. He offered passing motorists and pedestrians the sign of the cross as well as a flier indicating events leading to Easter.
“People are so busy and many don’t have time to attend prayers,” Newman said. “This way, I get down to the people’s level.”
The idea worked.
Within 90 minutes, Newman’s expectations were shattered as a steady stream of motorists pulled into the parking lot on Ash Wednesday.
“I’m so glad you’re doing this,” said a customer who had her forehead marked with a cross without getting out of her car.
Newman said “Ashes to Go” is a contemporary moment of grace which draws on centuries of tradition and worship.
“Ash Wednesday marks the first of the 40 days of Lent in the Christian calendar,” he said. “The Old Testament frequently mentions the use of ashes as an expression of humiliation and sorrow.” He said the ashes symbolize that people are dust, and on Ash Wednesday, people settle their hearts and minds through prayer and reflection on how to become a better person and help others
“Remember that you are dust and to dust you shall return,” Newman recited the short words while imposing ashes on the continuing flow of people. “The ashes are a powerful symbol of our own mortality, but also the faith of the church in the life of the world to come and the renewal of all things.”
Ashes for use on Ash Wednesday were made from burned palms from previous Palm Sunday services.
Newman said at All Saints’ church, they wholeheartedly believe that people can belong before they believe.
Ash Wednesday, Lent, and Holy Week are wonderful opportunities to share the beauty and love of their faith and church ohana with people, who are looking for a safe, welcoming, and inclusive community to explore and nurture their spiritual journey, Newman said.
“We want to go out to our community and share a simple and profound spiritual experience, especially with those community members who might not be comfortable or familiar with the church,” he said.
• Dennis Fujimoto, staff writer and photographer, can be reached at 245-0453 or dfujimoto@ thegardenisland.com.
