Gather the ashes that you will be distributing. These should be burned prior to the Ash Wednesday service and should be in a small container. Stand in your designated spot to distribute ashes. The congregation should be standing in a line ready to approach you. Place your right thumb into the container of ashes, which you should hold in your left hand. Make sure that there are enough ashes on your thumb to properly apply them to a person's forehead. With your right thumb, apply the ashes to the first person's forehead, in the shape of a cross. While applying the ashes, say one of the following to the person: Remember that thou art dust, and to dust thou shalt return. (Genesis 3:19) Turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel. (Mark 1:15) Repeat steps three and four for the rest of the faithful that approach.