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Ash Wednesday: A Day of Fasting and Reflection

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Today marks the century-old tradition of Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent for Christians around the world.

For many Catholics and Anglicans, the day will mark the start of 40 days of fasting, repentance, and spiritual renewal in preparation for the Easter season.  

During this period of reflection and prayer Christians remember the suffering Jesus endured when he went into the wilderness and fasted for 40 days before his crucifixion.

To commemorate Ash Wednesday, churches hold special services in which Christians are blessed with ash crosses on their foreheads to represent repentence and death.

Some Christian sectors observe Lent differently than others. The Church of England does not have fixed rules for fasting and Anglicans are free to choose what they will give up during Lent.

Catholics fast one meal and two snacks on Ash Wednesday, while Orthodox Christians follow a strict fast before and during Lent.

Some Christians fast the entire period of Lent to reflect Jesus's sacrifice in the desert. Others only fast on Ash Wednesday and the Friday before Easter Sunday.

However, this day is not only observed by Christians. Many non-churchgoers commit to giving up something they enjoy during Lent. Usually people give up sweets, alcohol, or other unhealthy foods.

Some churches welcome the participation of non-believers.

"Anyone can receive blessed ashes on Ash Wednesday, whether Christian or not, to express their desire to grow spiritually," Seamus Cunningham, bishop of Hexham and Newcastle, told the International Business Times. "And to turn away from their failings, their areas of weakness and brokenness, in favour of seeking the healing and wholeness that only God can give."

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