Christians Begin 40-Day Lenten Season Following Ash Wednesday

Christians worldwide, including those at the Old South Church, observed Ash Wednesday on February 18 to mark the start of the 40-day Lenten season.The period of reflection and fasting leading to Easter on April 5 commemorates the 40 days that Jesus Christ spent in the wilderness.While Western denominations began their observances this week, Eastern Orthodox Christians will start their Great Lent on February 23 ahead of their Easter on April 12.