On Ash Wednesday, observant Catholics receive a sign of the cross in ashes on their foreheads, a gesture that underscores human mortality. It is an obligatory day of fasting and abstinence for Catholics that signals the start of Christianity’s most penitent season.

Pope Francis increased his physical activity Wednesday, called the Catholic parish priest in Gaza and celebrated the start of Lent by receiving ashes on his forehead, the Vatican said. The Holy Father suffered no respiratory crises during the day,

Pope Francis marked Ash Wednesday on his 20th day in Rome's Gemelli hospital by taking part in the rite of the blessing of the ashes and receiving them in a short prayer service, the Vatican said.

VATICAN CITY (RNS) — Pope Francis’ condition remained stable on Wednesday (March 5), according to a Vatican statement relaying his doctors’ reports. As Francis is being treated for pneumonia in both lungs at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome, the Vatican prepares to celebrate Lenten events without the pontiff.

The Vatican has made alternative plans for Ash Wednesday next week, making clear Pope Francis still had a long road to recovery.

battling double pneumonia Pope will not lead Ash Wednesday service next week VATICAN CITY, Feb 28 (Reuters) - Pope Francis had an "isolated breathing crisis" in hospital on Friday, the Vatican said, in a setback as the 88-year-old pontiff battles double ...

(AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino) TOPICS: VATICAN CITY (AP) — Pope Francis was ... Feb. 14 and is the longest of his 12-year papacy. Ash Wednesday Francis' treatment continues as the Vatican ...

Pope Francis remains hospitalised with pneumonia, using a ventilation mask overnight as Vatican marks Ash Wednesday.

The Vatican, though, made alternative plans for Ash Wednesday next week ... that he was still very much in charge. In Mexico City, a few dozen people gathered Thursday night at the cathedral ...

Ash Wednesday begins Lent, a 40-day period of prayer, fasting, and reflection for Christians. Observed with the application of ashes on the forehead, it signifies penance and humility. This day encourages spiritual disciplines such as prayer,

The Vatican, though, made alternative plans for Ash Wednesday next week ... that he was still very much in charge. In Mexico City, a few dozen people gathered Thursday night at the cathedral ...