Ash Wednesday: First day of Lent as countdown begins for Easter

As we celebrate Mardi Gras, also known as Fat Tuesday, Ash Wednesday has come onto us, bringing with it the 40 days of Lent.

The Catholic tradition is a time to reflect and ponder, and at the end, you will be rewarded with the arrival of Easter.

What is Ash Wednesday?

The Christian holy day known as Ash Wednesday is regarded as one of the "most popular and important holy days" in the faith, Tennessean reported.

Ash Wednesday marks a time for those of the Christian faith to confess their sins and profess their devotion to God, leading up to Easter.

When is Lent?

Wednesday marks the start of Lent, which finishes on Easter Sunday. During Lent, it is customary to give up something in remembrance of the 40-day fast that Jesus Christ underwent in the Judean Desert. 

The first day of Lent is Ash Wednesday.

Before Easter, which is celebrated as the day that Christians believe Jesus Christ rose from the grave and is now seated on the right side of God, believers are expected to mark that time with self-sacrifice, prayer, and other religious observances.

During the 40 days of Lent, six Sundays are not fasting days. Officially known as the "Day of Ashes," it takes its name from the custom of applying ashes in the shape of a cross on one's forehead.