Christians mark Ash Wednesday

Many Christians headed to church yesterday for Ash Wednesday services. It also marks the beginning of Lent —the 40-day period of abstinence and self restraint leading up to Easter. Ashes are placed on the forehead and serve as a public expression of faith. At St. Sebastian Parish in North Belle Vernon, Rev. Anthony Onoko  places ashes on Raen Parrot, a student at St. Sebastian Regional Catholic School. Photos by Jeff Helsel / Mon Valley Independent