Here's everything you need to know about Ash Wednesday and Lent and more on what these religious practices are all about.

For many Catholics and Christians, Ash Wednesday kicks off Lent and the Easter season next week. Here's what Ash Wednesday is, why Lent is 40 days.

In a conversation with Ricardo da Silva, S.J., for "Preach," James Hanvey, S.J., reflects on the universal appeal of Ash Wednesday. "Everyone is drawn to the ashes—for whatever reason," he says.