Christian ritual
3/6/2015
At the United Methodist Ministry Center, ashes form the shape of a cross on the forehead of receptionist Linda Johnston, left, placed by Kristin Terrell-Wilkes, Office of Mission coordinator. On Feb. 18, Conference staff members marked Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent. At the headquarters in Oklahoma City, the noon service was led by Carlos Ramirez, who is coordinator for Hispanic/Latino ministry in Oklahoma and an Office of Mission associate director. Scriptures that refer to ashes as symbols of repentance include Job 42:1-6 and Daniel 9:3-5.