Ash Wednesday is the first day of Lent, falling forty days before Easter. A priest or minister will draw ashes in the shape of a cross on the foreheads of believers while reciting a short Biblical verse. As the ashes are sacramental and not sacrements, anyone can recieve them. The penitential Psalms are usually read during the service. Ash Wednesday is a day to remember human mortality and express penitence for sins committed. Many Catholics also fast and abstain from meat for the day or throughout Lent.
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
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