Metro Detroit churches offer drive-through ashes on Ash Wednesday
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By Roop Raj, Fox 2 News -
United Methodist Pastor June Marshall-Smith
NOVI, Mich. (WJBK) -
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lenten season and some Metro Detroit churches are offering the traditional cross of ashes with a drive-through service.
At the Novi United Methodist Church along 10 Mile Road, motorists can receive drive-through ashes from 7:30-9 a.m. in the church's parking lot. A similar service will be offered at Grace Episcopal Church in downtown Mt. Clemens from noon to 1 p.m. in the parking lot.
The service hasn't come without a bit of controversy. A number of FOX 2 Facebook fans say these drive-through services disrespectful. United Methodist Pastor June Marshall-Smith disagrees.
"I think that when people do have ashes in the morning they still don't avoid worship. They still go to worship in the evening," said Marshall-Smith. "I think it might even encourage them to go their own churches in the evening."
Lent is the 40-day period between Ash Wednesday and Holy Saturday, the day before Easter.
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United Methodist Pastor June Marshall-Smith
