On Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of Lent, a unique initiative called 'Ash Cross to Go' was introduced by the Catholic Church in Munich. This event took place in the bustling area of Moosach, where Pastoralreferent Johannes van Kruijsbergen, dressed in traditional vestments, set up standing tables adorned with purple banners. Between 2 PM and 4 PM, he and a team of volunteers offered to draw ash crosses on the foreheads of willing passersby, integrating a spiritual practice into everyday life and inviting the public to participate in this significant religious ritual.

The initiative aims to reach people who may not typically attend church services, providing a more accessible way to engage with their faith during Lent. Van Kruijsbergen acknowledged that this approach may raise eyebrows among some observers, possibly being perceived as unusual or even controversial, but he expressed a desire to communicate the message of faith openly and innovatively. The move represents a growing trend among religious communities to connect with the public in more approachable and modern ways, redefining traditional practices in a contemporary context.

Overall, 'Ash Cross to Go' is an example of how religious institutions are adapting to contemporary societal changes and focusing on outreach, encouraging dialogue and interaction. This event not only represents a ritual familiar to Catholics but also aims to foster a broader understanding of their faith amidst the hustle and bustle of modern life in a vibrant urban setting.