Roman Catholic, Episcopal and many other liturgical churches hold services today that include the rubbing of ashes on the forehead, a sign of repentance for sins. Lent is a season of 40 days, not counting Sundays, in which the church traditionally has urged self-examination, penance and fasting.

Thanks for spending part of Ash Wednesday with us. Today’s report includes a couple of images from the Comic Cowboys parade and our first “Barkley-ism” section (but certainly not our first Charles Barkley quote).

Alabama law already allows the display of it in public places like schools, but a bill before lawmakers would require it.

Target’s decision to pull back its DEI promises prompted Black faith leaders to announce a boycott on the retailer during a press conference at the historic Metropolitan AME Church in Washington, D.C. Bishop Reginald T. Jackson persuaded other Black churches to join him in a 40-day boycott beginning Ash Wednesday.

CNN’s Kaitlan Collins caught up with DJ Daniel, the 13-year-old cancer survivor honored by President Donald Trump during his address to Congress. Cooler with gusty winds for Alabama on Wednesday, the chance for rain returns this weekend

Wesley United Methodist Church, 544 Government St., Baton Rouge, will commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, march at 10 a.m. Sunday, March 9.

Mardi Gras in New Orleans, has been in full swing since Jan. 6 and will close on March 4. Michiganders often celebrate with paczki, other treats.

New Orleans takes Mardi Gras seriously, with traditions including king cake and parades beginning in January and lasting for weeks until the actual holiday itself. Here's everything to know. This year, Mardi Gras, which translates from French to "Fat Tuesday," is on March 4.

If you want to enjoy as much of the Mardi Gras season as possible in one day, here are some events you can enjoy on Tuesday in Oklahoma City.