The Season of Pre-Lent, sometimes referred to as Shrovetide, begins today as we celebrate Septuagesima Sunday. The PNCC continues to observe this season although other rites have abandoned it. It is marked by the use of Rose colored vestments and a period of merrymaking including Mardi Gras before the solemn observance of Lent begins on Ash Wednesday which this year falls on the second of March.