The Distribution of Ashes

Despite COVID-19, people still turned out in good numbers at church parishes in the Diocese of Baton Rouge to receive ashes on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 17. Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the 40-day season of Lent. Because of the pandemic, instead of the traditional smudging of ashes on the forehead, ashes were sprinkled on top of the heads of attendees, which is a common practice in parts of Europe. Pictured is Father Cleo Milano, pastor of Our Lady of Mercy Church in Baton Rouge, distributing ashes following the noon Ash Wednesday Mass. 

Photo by Debbie Shelley