Ashes in a time of covid

An American priest writes: "I would think in this time of COVID, the significance of Ash Wednesday is even greater because we have to come face to face with our weakness, our mortality and our need for one another.”

The ashes symbolize both death and repentance. During this period, Christians show repentance and mourning for their sins, because they believe Christ died for them.

But…

Ash Wednesday is going to look different this year.

Instead of the priest or deacon using ashes to make the sign of the cross on people's foreheads, ashes will be sprinkled on top of people's heads.

Also, the priest will bless the ashes all at once instead of individually speaking to and blessing everyone.

Symbolic ashes in a pandemic – we do not  know when it will end.