Grade 6 Bible class learned about Ash Wednesday during their Feb. 17 Bible class.

Teacher Beth Grieser (right) talked about the background of Ash Wednesday with the class. They then shared with each other the symbol of marking their forehead or hand with ashes in the form of a cross and saying "Turn away from sin and follow God." While this activity was happening students reflected in silence on things in their lives that keep them from being closer to God.

Then the class discussed changes they might make for Lent--changes that would help deepen their relationship with God. Each person wrote their thoughts down on a note card: "For Lent I will try to..." Then they had the choice of posting them in/ on their desks, taking them home to post, or placing them on our whiteboard in the classroom. They were encouraged to show this to at least one other person to help hold them accountable to their goal.