As the Mardi Gras celebration ends, so begins the solemn period of Lent observed in many Christian circles and denominations. Timed weeks in advance of Easter Sunday, or the day of Jesus' resurrection according to Christian beliefs,

Ash Wednesday marks the start of Lent, a 40-day Christian season of prayer, fasting, and charity leading to Easter. Worshipers receive ash crosses symbolizing repentance. Lent commemorates Jesus’ 40-day fast in the desert,

After a Fat Tuesday filled with paczkis and pancakes, tomorrow is Ash Wednesday, marking the start of lent for people of Christian faith. Lent is a 40-day period preceding Easter Sunday where people from all denominations of Christianity practice self-sacrifice and discipline in various ways including fasting,