Several churches across Western New York are participating in what's called "Ashes to Go" as Christians mark the beginning of lent on this Ash Wednesday.
There are reportedly a total of 22 churches that will be administering Ashes on street corners and in parking lots, including Saint Paul's Episcopalian Church in Clarence. Paster Vicki Zust will be handing out ashes in the church's Harris Hill parking lot Wednesday. She said people don't even have to get out of their cars.
Pastor Zust said it's part of an effort to help people deal with their busy schedules and keep religion in their lives.
"One of the challenges facing the church is how do we meet people where they are? How do we bring the gospel, bring the love of God, bring the message to them in a way that fits with their lives today?"
Pastor Zust notes this is Saint Paul's third year participating in "Ashes to Go."
Last year about 100 people took advantage of the program, the pastor says that's three times as many as those who came to church for Ashes.