Why Did Marco Rubio Have an Ash Cross on His Forehead?

On Wednesday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio caught the attention of Fox News viewers by appearing with an ash cross on his forehead, marking the beginning of Ash Wednesday. This day heralds the start of Lent, a significant period in the Christian faith.

The ash cross is a Christian symbol embraced by millions of Catholics worldwide, initiating a time of reflection, repentance, and spiritual preparation that leads to Holy Week and Easter. The mark of ash serves as a reminder of human frailty and penance for sins, echoing the biblical message: "Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return" (Genesis 3:19).

During his appearance, Rubio, who is of Cuban descent and a practicing Catholic, elaborated on the significance of the cross on his forehead. "Today is Ash Wednesday, a day of reflection and humility," the secretary stated. "For millions of Catholics in America and around the globe, it's a day of faith that reminds us of our vulnerability and the importance of doing good," he added.

Ash Wednesday also marks the start of Lent, a 40-day period dedicated to penance, fasting, and preparation for the resurrection of Christ. The ashes, derived from the burning of the previous year's Palm Sunday palms, are applied by a priest or religious leader. Although not a mandatory sacrament, many believers receive the ash cross as an expression of faith.

However, as a visible sign of religious devotion, the ash cross has sparked debate over the presence of religious symbols in public spaces, particularly in the United States, where the separation of church and state remains a contentious issue.