Ash Wednesday Experiences

Drive-Thru Prayer & Ashes

Clergy will offer drive-thru prayers and ashes on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 18, at Cornerstone United Methodist Church in north O’Fallon. The event will take place in the church parking lot from 7 to 8a, 11:30a to 12:30p, and 2 to 3p. Participants will also receive complimentary cross keepsakes and vehicle air fresheners.

 The drive-thru Ash Wednesday experience is open to the public, and no registration or church affiliation is required.

 “Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent in the Christian tradition and invites us to reflect on both our shared mortality and God’s unconditional love and grace,” said Rev. Jim Peich, lead pastor.

“These drive-thru prayer times—and our worship service later that evening—offer accessible opportunities for people from all backgrounds to pause, receive ashes, and be prayed for during a busy day.”

More than 100 vehicles participated in the drive-thru Ash Wednesday event in past years.

Ash Wednesday Service

Community members are also invited to an in-person Ash Wednesday worship service at 7p on Feb. 18 at Cornerstone United Methodist Church’s St. Charles County campus. The service will include music, scripture, prayer, and the imposition of ashes and is open to all.

Lent Study: “An Unlikely Lent”

Learn more about this special 6-week Lenten study led by Rev. Jim Peich.

About Lent

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, the season leading up to Holy Week and Easter. In the Christian tradition, Lent is a time of repentance, reflection, and spiritual preparation, culminating in the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ on Easter.

Holy Week Services & Activities

7P - Thursday, April 2, 2026
Maundy Thursday Service with prayer stations and Holy Communion.

3P - Friday, April 3, 2026
Good Friday Service of remembrance

7A - Sunday, April 5, 2026
Easter Sunrise Service (The Corner)

8A - Sunday, April 5, 2026
Free Easter Breakfast (Zumwalt Cafe)

9A - Sunday, April 5, 2026
Classic Easter Service (Sanctuary)

10A - Sunday, April 5, 2026
Family Easter Egg Hunt (Front Lawn)

11A - Sunday, April 5, 2026
Modern Easter Service (The Corner)

About Cornerstone UMC

Our MISSION is to SERVE the community, ENGAGE people in the life of the church, and GROW together in our love of God and neighbor.

Our VISION is to be a growing multi-generational community of faith where ALL people are welcomed, wanted, and loved.

Cornerstone UMC is located at 1151 Tom Ginnever Ave in O’Fallon, MO across the street from the Fort Zumwalt North High School campus.