Ashes to Go: Arizona churches provide Ash Wednesday services at train stations, street corners

PHOENIX - A number of churches in Arizona are providing "Ashes to Go" to mark the start of the holy season of Lent. 

Priests and clergy were out at light rail stations, college campuses, and street corners on Ash Wednesday to bring services into the streets.

Father Craig Bustrin, with St. Mary's Episcopal Church, had a group with him at the Montebello Light Rail station in Phoenix. He said this is the first year they're taking part in this nationwide movement.

"Church and convenience," he said. The purpose is to bring church to people who may not be able to make it to service.

Priests in robes marked the foreheads of interested passers-by. 

Lent is a time of reflection and repentance. A cross of ashes is a reminder of mortal failings and an invitation to receive God's forgiveness, according to the Episcopal Diocese of Arizona.

Father Scott Jones, with St. Mark's Episcopal Church, was at the Main/Sycamore Light Rail station in Mesa.  He said church attendance is down across the country and it's hard to get in touch with the newer generation.

This would be a good way to reach out to people who may not know about God, Father Jones said.

For more information, visit AshesToGo.org .