SecState Marco Rubio Appears on Television With The Ashes CROSS on His Forehead

✞ Although the aim of the interview was to discuss topics of international politics, such as the war in Ukraine and the conflict in Gaza, public attention quickly shifted to Rubio's religious symbolism.

The United States Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, sparked intense debate following his appearance this Wednesday on the morning show of Fox News with the Ash Wednesday cross marked on his forehead.

Catholics mark Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent. The cross, made of ashes, symbolizes repentance and is traditionally placed by a priest.

The ash Cross marking observers' foreheads is meant to represent mortality and penance for their sins. It is applied by a priest during a morning mass, often along with a small blessing: "Remember that you are dust and to dust you shall return." Many choose to keep it on all day.