Journey Through Lent:
A Season of Reflection and Renewal
What Is Lent?
Lent is a special season of 40 days when Christians take time to reflect, pray, and make small sacrifices. It’s a way to reset our hearts and minds, drawing closer to God as we prepare for Easter.
Just like Jesus spent 40 days in the desert fasting and resisting temptation, we use this time to grow spiritually, let go of distractions, and focus on what truly matters.
Why Is Lent Important?
Lent isn’t just about giving things up—it’s about making room for God in our daily lives. Whether it’s through prayer, fasting, or acts of kindness, it’s a chance to deepen our faith and become more mindful of our relationship with Christ.
It’s also a time to reflect on Jesus’ great sacrifice and the incredible love He has for us. By making small sacrifices, we honor His journey to the cross and prepare our hearts for the joy of Easter.
When Does Lent Begin?
Lent in 2025 starts on Ash Wednesday, March 5, and lasts until Holy Thursday, April 17.
On Ash Wednesday, you might see people with a cross of ashes on their foreheads. These ashes come from the burnt palms of the previous Palm Sunday and are a reminder of our human journey. When the priest places the ashes, he says:
“Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” (Genesis 3:19)
It’s a powerful call to reflect on our lives and grow in faith.
What Are the Rules of Lent?
Lent has a few traditions that help us practice discipline and self-control:
- No meat on Fridays – Instead, Catholics choose other options like fish, eggs, or plant-based meals.
- Fasting on Ash Wednesday & Good Friday – Adults (18-59) eat only one full meal and two smaller meals that don’t add up to a full meal.
What Can You Eat Instead?
Skipping meat doesn’t mean boring meals! Here are some tasty alternatives:
Fish & seafood – Salmon, shrimp, tuna, and more
Plant-based proteins – Lentils, beans, tofu, and chickpeas
Eggs & dairy – Cheese, yogurt, and eggs are all okay
Pasta, rice & veggies – So many delicious ways to mix things up!
Why Do We Do This?
These small sacrifices help us remember Jesus’ suffering and ultimate sacrifice for us. It’s a simple way to step outside our comfort zone and focus on something greater—our faith, our relationship with God, and how we can love others better.
Lent is a personal journey, and everyone’s path is different. Whether you’re giving something up, adding a new habit, or simply spending more time in prayer, what matters most is that it brings you closer to Christ.
Let’s embrace this season with open hearts, knowing that each small step brings us closer to the joy of Easter!
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Did You Pray Today?
Daily prayer is a powerful way to strengthen your faith, find peace, and invite God’s presence into your life. Even a few moments of prayer can bring clarity, comfort, and spiritual renewal. Whether you are starting your day, taking a break, or preparing for sleep, these short yet meaningful prayers help you stay connected to God.
Take a moment now to pray:
The Sign of the Cross
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
The Our Father (The Lord’s Prayer)
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name;
thy kingdom come; thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us;
and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
The Hail Mary
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.
A Daily Habit of Prayer: These prayers take less than a minute, yet they bring us closer to God each day. Keep prayer at the center of your life and experience His love and guidance.
Walking in Faith, Growing in Grace
Every day is an opportunity to draw closer to God. In prayer, in scripture, and in the moments of stillness, He speaks to our hearts. Faith is not just about knowing—it’s about living, trusting, and walking in His light.
Through life’s joys and challenges, we are called to remain steadfast, to seek Him in all things, and to reflect His love in our words and actions. Even the smallest acts of faith— a whispered prayer, a kind word, a moment of gratitude— bring us deeper into His presence.
May this space be a source of encouragement, reflection, and renewal for you. Wherever you are on your journey, know that God is with you. Keep the faith, stay rooted in prayer, and continue seeking His truth.