What is Lent
Lent is a solemn 40-day period observed in many Christian traditions, particularly within Catholicism, Anglicanism, and other liturgical denominations. It is a season of opportunity—a chance to reset, refocus, and rediscover the life, sacrifice, and resurrection of Jesus. These 40 days are inspired by the time Jesus spent in the wilderness, fasting, praying, and resisting temptation (Matthew 4:1-11). Lent begins on Ash Wednesday and concludes on Holy Saturday, excluding Sundays, which are not counted among the 40 days.
At its heart, Lent is about relationship. It is not about religious duty or ticking off spiritual boxes, but about drawing closer to Jesus. During this season, many Christians choose to fast—not just from food, but also from distractions such as social media, excessive spending, or anything that might take their focus away from God. The goal is not deprivation for its own sake but creating space to hear God’s voice and experience His presence more deeply.
On Ash Wednesday, participants often receive ashes on their foreheads in the shape of a cross, symbolizing human mortality and the need for repentance. Fridays during Lent, particularly Good Friday, are marked by abstinence from meat and acts of penance to honor Christ’s sacrifice.
Prayer is another key element of Lent. It offers Christians an opportunity to re-center their lives on Jesus, bringing their joys, challenges, and failures to Him. Lent reminds believers of their need for His grace and the incredible truth that He meets them where they are.
Lent also calls Christians to look outward. Just as Jesus gave Himself for us, believers are called to give—whether through acts of kindness, generosity, or serving those in need.
Holy Week, at the end of Lent, leads Christians through the ultimate expression of God’s love: Jesus’ death on the cross and His triumphant resurrection. It includes significant observances such as Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, and Good Friday, each commemorating key events in the Passion of Christ. Lent prepares believers to fully appreciate the joy and hope of Easter.
Ultimately, Lent is a journey—a chance to leave behind what weighs us down and embrace the abundant life Jesus promises (John 10:10). It is an invitation to be transformed by His love and to share that love with others.
Lent is both a deeply personal and communal journey of faith. While some focus on “giving something up,” others embrace “taking something on,” such as acts of kindness or additional spiritual practices. Regardless of how it is observed, Lent is a call to grow in faith, draw closer to God, and prepare spiritually for the joy of Easter, the celebration of Christ’s victory over sin and death.
Dates
In 2025, Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, March 5, and ends on Holy Thursday, April 17, before the evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper.