The English word “Lent” comes from the Anglo–Saxon word lencten, which means “lengthen” and refers to the lengthening days of "spring."

The purpose of Lent is the preparation of the believer for Easter through prayer, doing penance, repentance of sins, almsgiving, and self-denial. Historically, Lent began as a period of fasting and preparation for baptism by converts and then became a time for penance (seeking and receiving forgiveness for one’s sins against God and neighbor) by all Christians. The Scripture readings during Lent, until Passion/Palm Sunday, focus primarily on the meaning of baptism and discipleship, in continuity with the season’s original purpose.

Lent is a season of 40 days, not counting Sundays, which begins on Ash Wednesday and ends on Holy Saturday (the day before Easter). We do not count Sundays because they are always celebrated as little Easters. Sundays remind us of the spirit of repentance in Lent which is tempered with joyful expectation of the Resurrection. The length of the season is representative of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ's journey into the desert for 40 days.

Be sure to mark your calendar for these activities taking place throughout the Lenten season ...