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.

The pope "rested well" and woke shortly after 8 a.m. this morning, his 20th day in hospital, as his condition remains stable and his prognosis remains reserved.

ROME - Pope Francis' condition "remained stable" on Wednesday, "without any episodes of respiratory insufficiency," according to a new update by the Vatican.

Lent begins with Ash Wednesday and leads up to Easter on April 20. A cardinal has been designated to take Francis’ place at Vatican celebrations.

SIOUX FALLS, SD (KELO) — Many of the faithful across KELOLAND attended Ash Wednesday services to mark the beginning of the 40 days of Lent. The ailing Pope Francis is in the prayers of both ...