Ash Wednesday in Exeter - Worshippers gather for 'powerful sign' of renewed faith

Churches across Exeter are marking Ash Wednesday today, signalling the start of Lent, a 40-day period of reflection and preparation leading up to Easter in the Christian calendar.

At Exeter Cathedral, a series of services are taking place throughout the day, including Morning Prayer, Eucharist and Solemn Eucharist. The cathedral’s choir is performing during the mass, with clergy inviting worshippers to receive the traditional imposition of ashes.

Ash Wednesday is one of the most significant dates in the Christian year. 

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It begins Lent, a solemn season of repentance, prayer and self-examination, recalling the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the wilderness before his crucifixion and resurrection. 

During Ash Wednesday services, worshippers receive a cross marked on their foreheads using ash mixed with oil - a symbolic reminder of human mortality and a renewed commitment to faith.

Exeter Cathedral described its Ash Wednesday services as offering a “serene and welcoming atmosphere”, with its historic interior providing what has been described as “architecture as theatre”, a dramatic and reflective backdrop for the liturgy.

The cathedral’s daily calendar also outlines other services, opening times and upcoming events throughout the week. 

During Lent, Exeter Cathedral will host candlelit concerts, behind-the-scenes tours and lectures, offering residents and visitors opportunities to explore both the spiritual and historical aspects of the building.

Across the city, parish churches are also holding services.

At St David's Church, congregations are gathering at 10.30am and 7pm today to mark the beginning of Lent.

Reverend Sarah Cumming, Associate Priest at St David’s, said: “Today at St David's Church in Exeter, we'll gather at 10.30am and 7pm to mark Ash Wednesday, the start of the season of Lent.”

“This is a time of renewed prayer and preparation as we recall the events leading to Jesus' death and resurrection which we will celebrate at Easter.

“Lent is a season when we repent - say sorry to God - for the way we turn away from the fulness of life which God offers.” 

“To mark this in a physical way, the leader of the service will make the sign of the cross on each person's forehead, using a mixture of ash and oil.” 

Finally, Reverend Cummings added: “It is a very powerful sign of a renewed commitment to Christian faith. Anyone is welcome to attend.”

Ash Wednesday is observed by many Christian denominations including Anglican, Catholic and Methodist churches. 

The ashes used in services are traditionally made by burning palm crosses from the previous year’s Palm Sunday services.