Today marks Ash Wednesday, which is the start of the liturgical season of Lent. President Barack Obama released a statement earlier today commemorating the holiday, and said that he and Michelle would be praying for Christians around the world who are facing persecution for their faith.
The full statement:
Today, Michelle and I join our fellow Christians in marking Ash Wednesday. Lent is a season of reflection, repentance and renewal, a time to rededicate ourselves to God and one another. We remember the sacrifice and suffering of Jesus Christ. We pray for all those who suffer, including those Christians who are subjected to unspeakable violence and persecution for their faith. And we join millions here at home and around the world in giving thanks for this sacred and solemn season that guides us toward the Easter celebration.
Lent ends on Thursday, March 24.