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Web Producer: Laura Kittell
Photographer: Guy Atchley

TUCSON (KGUN9-TV) - The day was clear and bright as St. Pius X parishioners came to the stately white church to observe an annual, sacred tradition - Ash Wednesday - and Guy Atchley was on hand to capture the moment.

Christians observe Ash Wednesday as the first day of Lent and traditionally, they focus on their sins and their savior's suffering and death. Despite those weighty implications, browsing through Guy's pictures, one can see the mood at St. Pius X was one of reverence and serenity.

Following a noon service at St. Pius X, the Impostion of Ashes followed throughout the day. According to custom, ashes, made by burning palm fronds used on Palm Sunday of the previous year, are mixed with a small amount of olive oil and applied to the forehead of each worshipper.

The tradition serves as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice and mortality.

Remember that thou art dust, and to dust thou shalt return. —Genesis 3:19