Ash Wednesday – Turn our Hearts to You.
Opening Hymn
Teacher: Set the sceneby stating why we are gathered to pray. If the children are coming forward for the Blessed Ashes explain why.
Sign of the Cross.
We begin by lighting a candle. Our candle reminds us that God is with us. (Lightthe candle)
Teacher: We gather together to mark the start of Lent, the time when we get ready to celebrate Easter. During this time, we make extra effort to turn towards God. Together, let’s pray to God, asking him for help to turn towards him during Lent. The response to each prayer is, ‘God of love, turn our hearts to you.’
All: God of love, turn our hearts to you.
Reader 1: Loving God, you want us to be close to you. May we find quiet time to pray to you, just like Jesus did. May we listen to you in our hearts during this special time of Lent. God of love, turn our hearts to you.
All: God of love, turn our hearts to you.
Reader 2:Loving God, you want us to care for our friends. Help us to be kind to those around us during this special time of Lent. God of love, turn our hearts to you.
All: God of love, turn our hearts to you.
Reader 3:Loving God, you want us to be unselfish and not to be greedy. Help us to be generous in our giving and sharing during this special time of Lent, especially those who are in need. God of love, turn our hearts to you.
All: God of love, turn our hearts to you.
Distribute the Ashes – play reflective music.
Teacher:Invite the children to come forward, one by one, and place the ashes on their forehead in the sign of the cross. As you do so you can say: Name “……, turn towards God.”
Child: A child holds up a basket/box with their Lenten promises as the teacher says the Closing Prayer.
Closing Prayer:
Loving God,
These are our promises for Lent.
We know you hear us and care for us.
Help us through our Lenten journey to grow in love for you and for others.
Fill our hearts with your love.
We pray this in the name of Jesus.
All: Amen
Closing Hymn (Grow in Love 1st Class)