Lent is a period of 40 days from Ash Wednesday to Easter Sunday. For Christians it is a time to repent and fast in order to prepare for Easter.
Lent is a Germanic word originally used to refer to the spring season. Over time it replaced the Latin word for “forty days.” The period represents Jesus’ previous time in the desert when he fasted, meditated and reflected before beginning his ministry.
Many of the strict rules of fasting were eliminated in the Roman Catholic Church in 1966. Adult Catholics are asked to go on a strict fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday and during the 40 days of Lent.
Fasting strengthens Christians’ spiritual life by weakening the attractions to materialistic items. The idea of “giving up something” for Lent is meant to be a sacrifice and an act of self-discipline.
Abstinence from certain foods is a Biblical discipline. During Lent, Christians are supposed to abstain from eating meat on Fridays.
Lent is also a time to reflect, pray and do good works. There are Spiritual Works of Mercy and Corporal Works of Mercy. Spiritual Works of Mercy include helping people spiritually: converting the sinner, instructing the ignorant, counseling the doubtful, comforting the sorrowful, bearing wrongs patiently, forgiving injuries, and praying for the living and the dead. Corporal Works of Mercy include feeding the hungry, giving drink to the thirsty, clothing the naked, harboring the stranger, visiting the sick, ministering to prisoners and burying the dead.
Although it is not obligatory to observe Lent, Christians should celebrate Lent because it is a way to remember Jesus and what he has done.