Today is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent. Today and for forty days leading to Easter (not including Sundays) many Christians enter into a season of contemplation and spiritual evaluation.

Here’s an explaination of Ash Wednesday from Catholic.org:

Following the example of the Nine vites, who did penance in sackcloth and ashes, our foreheads are marked with ashes to humble our hearts and reminds us that life passes away on Earth. We remember this when we are told”Remember, Man is dust, and unto dust you shall return.”

Ashes are a symbol of penance made sacramental by the blessing of the Church, and they help us develop a spirit of humility and sacrifice.

Roman Catholics are joined by churches of many different denominations such as United Methodists, Presbyterians, Lutherans, Episcopalians,  who mark the day with special services.