Ash Wednesday 2025: Where to Receive Ashes In Newtown

NEWTOWN, CT — Lent, the 40-day period of fasting, reflection, and penance for Christians leading up to Easter Sunday, begins Wednesday, Mar. 5.

The first day of the season, Ash Wednesday, is observed primarily by Catholics, as well as some Protestant denominations, by the imposition of ashes on the foreheads of worshipers in the shape of a cross.

The ashes, typically made from burned palm branches from the previous year's Palm Sunday, symbolize repentance, humility, and mortality, reminding believers of Genesis 3:19, "Remember, Man, that thou art dust, and unto dust thou shall return."

In Bewtown, several churches will hold services that include the distribution of ashes, according to their websites:

In Newtown, the following churches have scheduled services for the imposition of ashes:

St. Rose of Lima Church

• Address: 46 Church Hill Road, Newtown
• Mass Times: 6:45 a.m., 9:00 a.m., noon, and 5:30 p.m.
• Additional Information: Regular daily Masses are at 6:45 a.m. and 9:00 a.m.

Newtown United Methodist Church

• Address: 92 Church Hill Road, Sandy Hook
• Drive-Thru Ashes: 7:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.
• Evening Service: 7:00 p.m.
• Additional Information: Pastor Steve Volpe will administer ashes in the church parking lot during the morning hours.

Please note that service times and offerings may change. It's advisable to contact the churches directly or visit their official websites for the most current information.