Catholics Around the World Mark Ash Wednesday

By: RNS

Updated: April 28, 2009

Catholics worldwide are marking the beginning of Lent with today's commemoration of Ash Wednesday.

The day begins 40 days of penance, reflection and fasting leading into Easter Sunday.

Many Catholics will go to church to have a priest smear ashes on their forehead, which symbolize mourning and penance.

Many Christians give up something tangible for Lent such as liquor or a favorite food.

They may also use the day to reflect on their lives and decide whether to make changes.

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