Churches in the neighborhood are preparing for the Lenten season of the religious calendar which begins on Wednesday and runs for 40 days. Ash Wednesday this week is the first day of the Lenten season – a time when Christians are asked to reflect on their shortcomings and drawbacks, repent for mistakes made and to lead a austere life.
Ash Wednesday will feature a symbolic service in churches where the priest will smear the forehead of people with ash made from blessed, dry palm leaves that people keep on altars at home.
The symbolism goes with the Lenten spirit of repentance and forgiveness. Lent leads to the week of Good Friday and ends in Easter.
