History of Ash Wednesday: Where does the Ash come from?

In the Western church, the first day of Lent is called Ash Wednesday from the ceremonial use of ashes, as a symbol of penitence, in the service prescribed for the day. It follows Mardi Gras, also known as Shrove Tuesday, and ends with Easter 40 days later, not counting Sundays.

It is practiced by Lutheran, Methodist, Presbyterian, and Anglican denominations and by…