In Sharpsburg, Ash Wednesday, which fell on Feb. 9 this year, was marked by the annual ecumenical service for members of St. Mary Magdalene Church and Cokes Chapel United Methodist Church. The two churches are next-door neighbors on Lower Fayetteville Road. The overflow crowd gathered together for the imposition of ashes, a traditional sign of penance and acknowledgment of human mortality. The choir for the service included members from both congregations.