WYOMING, Mich. -- With the parties and celebrations of Mardi Gras over, Christians all over the globe will head to church Wednesday to mark the start of Lent.
The tradition began back in the 6th century as a way for Christians to prepare for Easter.
Some local churches, including Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, 5333 Clyde Park Avenue in Wyoming, will be giving "ashes to go" from 7 to 9 a.m. Wednesday morning.
Rev. Dr. Jared Cramer will also offer ashes to go Wednesday 8-10 a.m. and 3:30-5:30 p.m. in Grand Haven near the Fifth Third Bank just north of Robbins Road, according to the Grand Haven Tribune.
Ashes -- which represents repentance and death -- in the shape of a cross are placed on the foreheads of believers.
The Lenten season lasts the 40 days plus six Sundays leading up to Easter.
