Ash Wednesday

Cleanse me with hyssop, that I may be pure;

wash me, make me whiter than snow.

Let me hear sounds of joy and gladness;

let the bones you have crushed rejoice.

Turn away your face from my sins;

blot out all my guilt.

A clean heart create for me,

God; renew in me a steadfast spirit.

Do not drive me from your presence,

nor take from me your holy spirit.

Restore my joy in your salvation;

sustain in me a willing spirit.

(Psalms, 51:9-14.)