The following churches will have special services in observance of Ash Wednesday today.
Grace and St. Paul Lutheran, Shamokin
The community is invited to join the congregations of Grace and St. Paul Lutheran churches for a joint Ash Wednesday service at 7 p.m. today in Grace Lutheran Church, West Chestnut Street, Shamokin.
The Rev. David Byerly, pastor of both congregations, will preside and preach. Pastor Byerly will also offer ashes to all who wish to receive them.
The service of Word and Sacrament will mark the beginning of the Lenten Season in the church. Participants in the service include Ron Weller, worship assistant; Shelley Faust, cantor; Austin Joraskie, acolyte/crucifer; Mr. and Mrs. William Hoffa, communion bearers, and Jeanne Hoffa, Tonia Adams, Beverly Deitz, Fran Hand, Nancy Joraskie, Treva Madison, Jeanne Romanic and Kim Tharp, ushers. Walter Boyer is the organist and Charlene Pell is choir director.
Salem United Church of Christ, Coal Township
Salem United Church of Christ, 1300 W. Pine St., Coal Township, will hold Ash Wednesday service at 7 p.m. today at the church with The Rev. Jean Eckrod, church pastor, presiding.
Participants in the service include Grace Stank, lay leader; Millie Mowery and Gerry Woland, communion assistants; Brian and Karen Williams, gifts of the people; Judie Zabawsky, organist; Salem Choir, anthem; Judie Zabawsky, choir director and accompanist; Larry Diorio, lighting and sound; Ken Staner and Corrine Foltz, greeters, and Helen Martin, Carol Snyder, and Gerry and Bill Woland, ushers.
