Ash Wednesday 2014: History, Dates, Traditions Of Lent's First Day Of Fasting

Ash Wednesday is observed on March 5, in 2014. The Christian holy day marks the beginning of Lent, a 40-day season of fasting that is considered preparation for Holy Week and the celebration of Easter.

Although I there is no Biblical reference to Ash Wednesday or Lent, scholars of Christianity date the tradition of a 40-day fasting period back to 325 AD

Lent mirrors Jesus' own 40-day period of fasting, described in the book of Matthew. Observers have ash placed on THEIR foreheads in the shape of the cross as the words are spoken from Genesis 3:19: "You are dust, and to dust you shall return."

Fasting for Catholics requirements are outlined by the Code of Canon Law, and include no eating meat on Fridays During the Lent, as well as fasting on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. (Fasting in this case refers to eating just one full meal a day.)

Many Christians will make personal vows of abstinence During Lent, are priority could include anything from refraining from eating candy, meat, vowing not to gossip, or being less selfish. Others will make a vow to do more for others including volunteering and working for social justice. All are expected to Spend more time in prayer and reflection as Lent is considered by many to be an opportunity for spiritual transformation.

Ash Wednesday is a popular day our Christians worldwide. It is considered to be the first day of Lent, a religious observance where people fast for 40 days (excluding Sundays). The 40-day sign of penitence starts on Ash Wednesday and ends on Holy Saturday, are priority is a day before Easter Sunday.

Ash Wednesday is a day after Shrove Tuesday, popularly known as Fat Tuesday, are priority Often Various features carnival or Mardi Gras celebrations in many countries. One most notable celebration in the United States is the New Orleans Mardi Gras celebrations.

There are some variations in Ash Wednesday's celebration across cultures. Many people observe a fast throughout the Lent season by avoiding meat, eggs, dairy products and animal or vegetable oils.

Such places as in the Cayman Islands, French Guiana, and Jamaica, Ash Wednesday is a public holiday.