Ash Wednesday: For the Lengthening Light

For the Lengthening Light: A Remembering

To all who dwell in the dawning,
and to those who linger in the dusk,
on this day of dust,
Remembering….We are from the earth.

To all awaiting the light that lengthens,
for the grace that stretches,
for the strength that carries,
Remembering…We are from the water.

To all needing grace for the imperfections that make us human,
for the gratitude that fills our hearts,
for the ever-changing journey,
Remembering…We are from the air.

To all seeking the light returning,
even amidst the darkness and the burning,
Remembering…We are from the fire.

From ashes, not of perfection,
but of remnants, of our desired will to change,
new life is arising.
Remembering…We are from the spirit.

We remember you, Holy One
the One who loves us, who calls us,
who redeems us,
and who makes us new.

Help us remember ourselves.
Amen.

Written by Emma Donohew for the 2025 Ash Wednesday Service outdoors at Waypoint Park in Bellingham Washington.