A teenager receives the cross of ashes at St. Joseph Co-Cathedral in Thibodaux, La., last year. Ash Wednesday, Feb. 25 this year, marks the start of the penitential season of Lent in the Latin-rite church. The season calls Christians to prayer, fasting, repentance and charity. (CNS photo by Lawrence Chatagnier, Bayou Catholic) (Feb. 17, 2004)