The Season of Lent

Lent, which begins Ash Wednesday and ends on Holy Thursday, is a period of spiritual renewal that helps us prepare for the celebration of the Paschal mystery of Christ—that is, his passion, death and resurrection. The three pillars of the Lenten season are prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. By spending time in prayer and in reflection on the Scriptures, through penance and through giving up (sacrificial acts) and giving to others (charitable acts), we look to experience a spiritual reawakening that brings us closer to Christ.

Lent's origins can be traced in part to a short period of fasting and prayer undergone by catechumens / elect, who are preparing for full initiation into the Church at Easter through the sacraments of baptism, confirmation and Eucharist. The season is a reminder of the great gift of baptism, both the salvation it offers, as well as the challenge that comes with it. As Pope Francis expressed in his Lenten message, we must "imitate Christ who became poor and enriched us by his poverty."

You will find some resources below to help you in your Lenten journey. Click on any of the lines.

Prayer Opportunities & Scripture Reflections

• Echoing God's Word Scripture Reflections

• Prayer Opportunities around the Diocese including churches open for private prayer

• Bishop Robert Barron's Weekly Reflections (Sign up to receive via email)

• EWTN Lenten Reflections

• Ignatian Solidarity Network: Steadfast: A Call to Love

• Journey Begins Lenten Reflections - Prison and Jail Ministry

• Lectio Divina for Lent

• Lenten Inspiration for Families - February 28, offered by the Office of Lifelong Faith Formation

• Meet me in the Desert - CRS Lenten Prayer

• Saints for the Lenten Season