Catholics In New Orleans Observe Ash Wednesday After Mardi Gras

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 17: Deacon Richard Brady (L) and Father Phillip Landry (R) stand before the sanctuary of St. Louis Cathedral during the Ash Wednesday prayer and imposition of ashes on February 17, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana. Ash Wednesday marks the start of the Lenten period leading up to Easter, when Christians believe Jesus was resurrected. This event was executed with COVID-19 safety in mind, as ashes are normally administered to unmasked churchgoers with a finger instead of a long q-tip. The St. Louis Cathedral is also the oldest cathedral in North America. (Photo by Jon Cherry/Getty Images)