What is Lent?
Ash Wednesday begins the 40-day period marked by repentance and turning to God more fully and deeply. We confess our sins, our selfish nature, and receive the mark of ashes that reminds us of the wages of sin -- death. This honest encounter places us utterly in need of God's mercy and grace in order to live. Jesus is that mercy and grace, so we turn away from our sin and follow him. This is the journey of Lent.
The picture above of 16th century artist Albrecht Durer's "Man of Sorrows" portrays Jesus as carrying the weight of humanity's sins and the afflictions caused by them. Everything that causes us grief -- bad relationships, sickness, addictions, terrorism, violence, poverty, war, mental illness, physical and emotional pan, and death itself -- is captured in his overwhelming sadness. Jesus bears it all for you.
The picture above of 16th century artist Albrecht Durer's "Man of Sorrows" portrays Jesus as carrying the weight of humanity's sins and the afflictions caused by them. Everything that causes us grief -- bad relationships, sickness, addictions, terrorism, violence, poverty, war, mental illness, physical and emotional pan, and death itself -- is captured in his overwhelming sadness. Jesus bears it all for you.
The Great Three Days
The Triduum, or Great Three Days, are the high point of the Christian calendar because they are the heart of how Jesus saves us from everything that would separate us from God. These days are celebrated with dramatic liturgy, and the hearing of the story of salvation leading to Baptism and the entry into the Light of Christ.
The Journey of Lent - Making It Personal
PrayerDuring Lent, consider setting aside a specific time each day to talk to God.
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FastingThere are many ways to fast -- from all food for a short time, from certain foods, or from some activity that has become a bad habit.
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AlmsgivingEvery follower of Jesus shares to support the work of the Gospel. During Lent, we go over and above our regular tithes to give for the support of the poor.
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