Ash Wednesday

*On this day, the Celebrant begins the liturgy with the Salutation and 
the Collect of the Day.* 

Let us pray. 

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have 
made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: Create and 
make in us new and contrite hearts, that we, worthily 
lamenting our sins and acknowledging our wickedness, 
may obtain of you, the God of all mercy, perfect remission 
and forgiveness; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives 
and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever 
and ever.  Amen. 

*Old Testament*    Joel 2:1-2, 12-17,  *or* Isaiah 58:1-12 

*Psalm*    103,  *or* 103:8-14 

*Epistle*    2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10 

*Gospel*    Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 


*After the Sermon, all stand, and the Celebrant or Minister appointed 
*invites the people to the observance of a holy Lent, saying* 

Dear People of God: The first Christians observed with great 
devotion the days of our Lord's passion and resurrection, and 
it became the custom of the Church to prepare for them by a