The Significance of Lent in the Catholic Faith
Led by the Holy Spirit, Jesus spent 40 days and 40 nights fasting in the desert and endured being tempted by Satan. He sacrificed worldly goods and prepared for ministry. This act inspired a Christian tradition that is now known as Lent. During this time (the 40 days leading up to Easter), many Christians choose to make a sacrifice that allows them to focus on faith. They look forward to Easter, a celebration of the day Jesus miraculously rose from the dead. Here’s what is celebrated leading up to the big day.
Fasting
Not all Christians literally fast during Lent. Some go without food for periods of 24 hours. Catholics practice not eating meat on Fridays. In addition to reduced foods, many Christians celebrate Lent by giving up something in their lives that distracts them from their faith. It should be something significant in your life but something it would be healthy to go without for a period of time. This practice commemorates the fasting Jesus did during his time in the desert.
Almsgiving
During his time on Earth, especially in his final moments, Jesus showed incredible selflessness. To honor this quality, Christians dedicate Lent to acts of charity. This includes giving time, money, clothing or food to those in need. This can be combined with fasting if you choose to remove something from your life that you can then give to others, like unused items or saved up money.
Significant Days of Lent
The Lenten season has many of its own dates on the liturgical calendar. It takes place over a period of 46 days with the six Sundays in between excluded from the count. Here are some of the most significant holy days:
Ash Wednesday: On the first day of Lent, Christians are reminded of their sins, as well as where life begins and ends. Priests spread dust crosses on their foreheads to symbolize Jesus dying for their sins and that life on Earth begins and ends as “dust.”
Palm Sunday: The Sunday before Easter, Christians celebrate the moment when Jesus showed up at Jerusalem. Palm crosses symbolize palm fronds that people waved and laid before him as he approached.
Holy Thursday: Also known as Maundy Thursday, this day commemorates the Last Supper, where Jesus washed the feet of his disciples. Celebrations vary, though one tradition is that the Pope washes the feet of 12 people.
Good Friday: On the last big day before Easter, Christians remember Jesus’s crucifiction for everyone’s sins. This is a day of prayer and reflection before the Easter holiday.
Lent is one of the most important liturgical seasons in the Catholic faith. With over 57 years of academic excellence, St. Teresa Catholic School, a Titusville Catholic school, provides a quality education that challenges and empowers students to develop to their full potential. Students foster qualities that are essential for lifelong learning and are equipped for future success. To learn more about why St. Teresa is the perfect fit for you and your student, contact us today.