Lent is a forty day season, not including Sundays, for reflection and preparation which lead up to easter. It began to take shape in the early Church, particularly after the council of Nicaea in 325 AD, which helped standardize the length of the fast. The forty day period is symbolic as it mirrors the time Jesus spent fasting in the desert and resisting temptation. Lent traditionally starts on Ash Wednesday.

On Ash Wednesday, many believers receive ashes on their foreheads as a reminder of human mortality. Though many people mainly associate Lent with the Catholic Church, a wide variety of Christian denominations observe it, including Orthodox, Anglican, Lutheran, and Methodist communities. Some who aren’t strictly religious also choose to participate as a way to practice self discipline or to break a bad habit.

The reason behind the celebration is straightforward, it is a time of spiritual renewal. By engaging in the three pillars of fasting, prayer, and almsgiving, people aim to distance themselves from distractions and focus on their faith and personal growth. The essence of lent is about solemnity and self sacrifice. Participants often give up luxuries like sweets or social media, to show self control and solidarity with those in need.

Ella Westerhold (11) stated that,  “To me, Lent is a time where people find courage and inspiration to quit bad habits and discipline themselves to become better versions of themselves”.

This time is not meant to be miserable, it is intended as a quiet journey of the heart, by resetting daily life as people prepare themselves to experience the joy of Easter with a renewed sense of purpose and a clearer spirt.