ASH WEDNESDAY--Fr. Michael Watson, Pastor of St. Mary's Catholic Church, prepares to place ashes on the forehead of a student during an Ash Wednesday Mass, at the church, in Columbus, Ohio, on Wednesday, Feb. 12, 1997. The ashes represent the sacrifies that Christians are asked to make during the forty-day Lentan Season, and are a reminder of the mortality of mankind. In addition, Christians are urged to take time for personal prayer, reflection, and the sharing of good deeds.

LET'S PARTY--Kathleen Demshar does some last minute decorating in preparation for the annual Fat Tuesday Party, at Jimmy's Too, in Columbus, Ohio, on Tuesday, Feb. 11, 1997.