This Wednesday, many members of the Catholic faith, among others, will be observing a significant holiday: Ash Wednesday.

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, the 46 days before Easter, which includes prayer, sacrifice and fasting. The period is actually 40 days, as it does not include the six Sundays between Ash Wednesday and Easter. The day specifically is often commemorated by a cross being marked on a worshipper’s head with ashes.

“Lent is a time of tradition,” said Mary Lynn Delfino, pastoral associate for campus ministry. “It’s a time when people really seek out that community dimension.”

The University Parish Newman Center located on Kent campus, is one church in the area that will observe the holiday. Their mass times are at 7 a.m., 12:15 p.m., 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. and are open to anyone.

“Prayer, fasting and alms are the three main things we do during Lent,” Delfino said.

Ash Wednesday doesn’t only appeal to older generations, because it is often the most popular day among millennials to observe.

“Millennials really rally around this season,” Delfino said. “Prayer is really important to young adults, especially when you’re in college.”

More information about Lent and the activities involved can be found at http://kentnewmancenterparish.org.

Contact Skye McEowen at [email protected].