By By Lisa Tindell – news editor
The Lenten season begins today for many Catholics and Episcopalians throughout the Brewton area.
Baldwin said his congregation would be participating in services to commemorate the beginning of Lent today.
The Ash Wednesday observance also gives those in the congregation a chance to experience a celebration of hope, Baldwin said.
Participants observe the period that follows Ash Wednesday by giving up something or taking on extra things, Baldwin said.
Money saved through the fasting sacrifice is given to charity or other special works during the Lenten season, Baldwin said. The 40-day period is symbolic of giving tithes as well.
The period signifies the time that Jesus spent in the wilderness, Baldwin said.
With meditation and prayer also being a large part of the observance of Lent, Baldwin will be offering special study time to enrich a believer's prayer life.
The study series will also include a light dinner, Baldwin said.
Those who plan to attend the study and dinner should contact the church so that ample meals can be prepared.
St. Stephens Episcopal Church is located at 1510 Escambia Ave. The church office can be reached by dialing 867-4545. The study series is open to the public.
St. Maurice Catholic Church will have Ash Wednesday services at XX a.m. and XX p.m. today.