UA Church Offers Drive Up Ashes To Mark Ash Wednesday

An Upper Arlington church has marked Ash Wednesday by offering drive-up ashes in the parking lot. Driver Brianna Climer was first in line to receive drive-up ashes at Advent Lutheran Church. “This is going to be the first time that I’ve ever done this so I’m not really sure what to expect,” Climer said. Church pastor Aaron Layne admits he was conflicted about the idea, but decided it would make the Christian observance more accessible. “As a Lutheran we are a traditional church but at the same time we are also in the tradition of reaching out and meeting people where they are with the love of God in Christ Jesus,” Layne said. Layne stood at the window of Climer’s SUV and proceeded. “Today, I’m going to mark the cross of Christ on you with the ashes to remember the fact that, yes, we are great sinners but we also have a great Savior. His name is Jesus,” Layne said. After administering the ashes Layne prayed a brief prayer and Brianna Climer went on her way.