What is Lent?

Lent is a period of fasting, repentance, and spiritual discipline in the Christian faith, observed primarily by Catholics, Anglicans, and some Protestant denominations. The 40 days leading up to Easter, except Sundays, beginning on Ash Wednesday.

During Lent, many Christians abstain from certain foods, such as meat and dairy, or from certain activities as a way to draw closer to God and focus on spiritual matters. Some people also choose to give up a particular vice or habit for the duration of Lent as a way of practising self-denial and self-discipline.

In addition to personal spiritual practices, Lent is also a time for collective worship and reflection. Many churches offer special services, such as Lenten retreats or devotionals, and some people participate in group fasts or other forms of communal spiritual discipline.

The purpose of Lent is to prepare the faithful for Easter, which commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is a time of renewal and transformation as Christians reflect on their own sinfulness and the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross.

Since Lent adheres to the liturgical calendar, its precise start date varies every year. Ash Wednesday, which is always held 46 days (40 days of fasting and 6 Sundays) before Easter Sunday, marks the start of Lent.

The day following Shrove Tuesday also referred to as Pancake Day in the UK, is Ash Wednesday. In other parts of the world, Mardi Gras, which is French for “Fat Tuesday,” is the name for Shrove Tuesday.