Catholics observe Ash Wednesday today. The day launched the season of Lent, 40 days that lead to the week when they recall the suffering and death of Jesus on the cross.
The day is observed in prayer, fasting and abstinence.
In local churches, during Holy Mass this morning the priest dabbed holy ash on the foreheads of church goers in a symbolic gesture. A symbolism for people to remind them that this is a season to seek pardon, be humble, try to wean away from bad habits and make acts of charity.
Ash Wednesday services were held in churches in San Thome, Abhiramapuram and Luz.
Through the 40 days special services will be held to mark the Lenten period.
This photo was shot at the Our Lady of Visitation Church on St Marys Road, Abhiramapuram by R. Saravanan.
