Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Lenten Season on the Christian Calendar. One of the most solemn seasons, but, as Father John Lynam tells, also one of the most joyful. Father Lynam, Pastor of Saint James Parish in Washington County, which is made up of Immaculate Conception and St. Hilary Churches in Washington and Sacred Heart Church in Claysville, says the word “Lent” is from an Old English term meaning springtime, and by the second century the term was being used to describe the period of individual fasting, almsgiving and prayer in preparation for Easter. Catholics around the world will be going to church to receive ashes in the sign of the cross on their foreheads. Father Lynam says the use of ashes is a sign of penance, in readiness for Easter and the ashes used in his parish are from palm fronds from last Palm Sunday, that were burned down to ashes. In addition to all of the religious activities that will be taking place during Lent, Father Lynam said there will also be the traditional fish fry at Immaculate Conception and Sacred Heart Churches, which this year, will be back to normal. They will be open for dine-in or take-out. Because of COVID, last year’s fish fry was take-out only. (Photo: ABC News)