DAY OF REFLECTION

ASH Wednesday, the first day of Lent which is commonly observed with ashes and fasting, starts today.

Lent lasts for 40 days and ends on Easter Sunday.

Many Christian denominations fast in imitation of Jesus Christ’s fast in the desert. It is a period in which Christians are meant to give up some comfort or adopt a spiritual practice that leads to self-examination, repentance from sin, and renewal of the soul.

Father Desmond Nair, of Our Lady Of Lourdes Catholic Church in Westville, places ash on Caroline Message’s forehead. |