What is Lent

Lent is the 6 week period of time that begins on Ash Wednesday and culminates in the celebration of Easter. Traditionally, it is a period of time for Christians to repent (realign their lives toward God) and personally prepare to accept Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross as an action that brings grace and eternal life to each believer. During the period of Lent it is appropriate to meditate on our personal and corporate sinfulness. Because of this many Christian traditions encourage people to give up something or fast during this period (following Jesus' pattern of a 40 day fast in Matt. 4). Sometimes, it is appropriate for a person to add something to their life - a daily spiritual discipline for example - instead of giving something up. Whatever you add or give up during the Lenten period, it should be something that helps you focus on God, not on the world.

• What does the word Lent actually mean? It comes from the German word for “Spring” because the 40 days takes place in the Spring. Originally the Lenten period was called quadragesima, meaning ‘the forty days.’

• Aren't there actually 46 days between Ash Wed and Easter Sunday? It is tradition not to include Sunday in the count. Sunday is considered to be a day of celebration because it is the day of Jesus’ resurrection and is therefore not included in the days reserved for penitence and fasting.

• Isn't this a Catholic thing? Although most people associate it with Catholicism, many traditions (including Presbyterians!) celebrate Lent. By taking the six week period of Lent as a time to be especially mindful of our need for God in our lives we can become more prepared and receptive of God’s grace at the Easter celebration.​