The season of Lent began this week with the happy collision of Valentine’s Day and Ash Wednesday.

Dean Katie Lawrence and Reverend Tim Handley enjoyed a two-hour early morning stint distributing Ashes to Go at the Train Station, which was a valuable and humbling opportunity to bless those who passed by. Their presence at the station opened a window to some interesting conversations. 

Katie said that it was a privilege to represent the love and forgiveness of Jesus and to pray for and with those who stopped to receive ashes or a blessing.

"We enjoyed encounters with friends and strangers alike, and many people expressed surprise and delight that the church was publicly present, even if they didn't wish to partake personally."

Tim found it humbling to be robed up in the station forecourt and to hold a space for God among the rush of commuters.

They returned to home base thoroughly chilled by the Wellington winds! 

At the same time, the Cathedral held an early morning service in the Lady Chapel, led by the Venerable Judy Hardie, which allowed office workers to stop by before their day started.

Ashes were also offered at the 12.15 pm Midday Eucharist and an evening service which took on an ecumenical nature, welcoming representatives from The Metropolitan Cathedral of the Sacred Heart and St Paul’s Lutheran Church.