Utah Christians — from Catholics to Lutherans to Latter-day Saints — begin countdown to Easter

Lent is underway.

This period begins Christianity’s holiest season and starts the countdown toward its holiest day: Easter.

Many Utahns — like these at the majestic Catholic Cathedral of the Madeleine in downtown Salt Lake City — marked the occasion by attending Ash Wednesday observances.

Believers — including Roman Catholics, Anglicans, Episcopalians and Lutherans — put ashes on their foreheads as an outward symbol of their penitence.

Members of Utah’s predominant religion, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, have also been urged to elevate their Easter preparations this year.

“No matter what others believe or do, we should celebrate the resurrection of our living Savior by studying his teachings and helping to establish Easter traditions in our society as a whole, especially within our own families,” apostle Dallin Oaks, first counselor in the governing First Presidency and next in line to lead the global faith, said in a recent video.

On Wednesday, the church noted it has published webpages in 11 languages with various Easter season resources, study aids and activities. It also posted on X, formerly Twitter, a video with words from church President Russell Nelson expressing thanks for Jesus Christ’s Atonement.

“Because of him,” the faith stated, “we can find joy in every circumstance, peace in our trials, and hope that lasts beyond this life.”

The church plans to further its efforts with a Holy Week study guide and by airing a special Easter episode of “Music and the Spoken Word” with The Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square.

This year, Western Christians and Eastern Orthodox devotees will celebrate Easter on the same day: April 20.