Hard to believe that Ash Wednesday is coming up soon! For Christians, Ash Wednesday, on February 14, 2024, begins the season of Lent, the 40-ish days leading up to Easter.

I’ve updated my Ash Wednesday video service for elders, suitable for those with Alzheimer’s and dementia, if you’d like to offer this important ritual. The description beneath the video explains Ash Wednesday and how to distribute the ashes.

Watch the 41-minute church service for Ash Wednesday here.

I’m posting this service early so you have time to purchase the ashes. You’ll find them online from numerous sellers. They are not like regular ashes; they’re more like powder, and a little goes a long way. Just mix a small amount of ashes with a small amount of olive oil before use.

If you prefer to provide an Ash Wednesday service yourself, here’s the written agenda. (If you choose to provide the service but not distribute ashes, here’s a slightly modified written agenda.)

Weekly Lent Devotions and Activities

Lent is traditionally a time of reflection and repentance, so I’ve also written a special, dementia-friendly Lenten Devotions and Activities booklet (PDF) to use with your loved ones throughout the season.

Peace be with you,

Photo by Annika Gordon on Unsplash