Ash Wednesday Services in South Orange and Maplewood

Ash Wednesday takes place 46 days before Easter and marks the first day of Lent, a period of prayer and fasting for Christians.

On Wednesday, Feb. 22, adherents of Lent will have an ash cross placed on their foreheads symbolizing mourning and repentance. There are still a few opportunities around the towns for the faithful to get their ashes today:

• Ashes will be distributed at all masses on Wednesday at St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church in Maplewood. Remaining masses are at 12 p.m., 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
• Ashes will be distributed at all masses at Our Lady of Sorrows at mass at 12 p.m. and at services at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.
• Ashes will be distributed at all services on Wednesday at South Orange Vailsburg United Methodist Church.
• Ashes will be distributed at all services on Wednesday at First Presbyterian & Trinity Church.
• Ashes will be distributed at all services on Wednesday at the Episcopal Church of St. Andrew and Holy Communion.