This year, Pope Francis is on the minds of many. The 88-year-old is still being treated for pneumonia at a hospital in Rome, refraining from leading Ash Wednesday services.

Pope Francis "rested well" and will spend his 20th day in hospital, ... Wednesday marks Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent, which is a 40-day season of prayer, fasting and giving.

It was the third time they have spoken since the pope was hospitalized Feb. 14. Lent begins with Ash Wednesday and leads up to Easter on April 20. A cardinal has been designated to take Francis ...

In the afternoon, the Vatican said Pope Francis alternated between rest and work. Big picture view: Lent begins with Ash Wednesday and leads up to Easter on April 20.

A cardinal will take Pope Francis’s place at Ash Wednesday celebrations this year as the pontiff remains in hospital (AP) Ash Wednesday marks the first day of Lent, a 40-day period of abstinence.