Lent is a period of 40 days observed by Catholics which leads up to Easter. This period of time is for reflection, prayer and fasting, which marks the 40 days in which Jesus spent fasting while still tempted in the desert, as described by the Gospels.
“Over time preparation for lent went from possibly one day to three days, to a week, and eventually to the forty days we have now. Also, it has been found that this time of preparation for new members can also be beneficial for all members of the Christian community, and this is why those who are already members of the Church often participate in Lent,” priest Keith Frase said.
Lent begins on Ash Wednesday and ends on Holy Saturday, the day before Easter Sunday. It is often a time when Catholics give up certain foods, habits or activities as a form of self-discipline or sacrifice which symbolizes Jesus’ own sacrifice. Some may also use Lent as a time for spiritual growth, charity and reflection on their faith.
“Lent is significant because it’s a period of reflection and sacrifice allowing individuals to deepen their connection with the Lord. I gave up cussing because I felt I overused swear words and wanted to end that habit,” Maura McGrath ‘27 said.
The 40-day period does not include Sundays, as they are considered “feast days” during Lent. The final week, known as Holy Week, includes significant events like Palm Sunday, Good Friday and Easter. Palm Sunday is celebrated by Christians as the Sunday before Easter marks Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem. Good Friday represents the crucifixion of Jesus. During Lent on each Friday people cannot eat meat. Easter is all about the resurrection of Jesus and is filled with joy and hope. People often participate in traditional Easter egg hunts, gather with family and enjoy special moments which honor Jesus with friends and family.
“I gave up caffeine for Lent because I feel I can’t go a day without caffeine and needed to stop my caffeine addiction. This will help prove to myself that I don’t need an energy drink to get through the day,” Jayli Chirpas ‘27 said.
The point of fasting during Lent is to help Christians “practice” to say “no” to the self, to selfish desires and to bad habits. Fasting from food is one way to practice fasting from sin when temptation comes. The true fast is to avoid the sins which distract people from their love for God and being thankful for the blessings people receive. When people eliminate sinful thoughts, words and actions, it helps members of the Church see the image of God more clearly, while also allowing others to see the image of God in the Christian person more easily.
