What does LEnt REALLY mean?
Lent is a period of self-examination, fasting, and penance in preparation for Easter Sunday, when we, as Catholics, celebrate the resurrection of the Lord, Jesus Christ. The three pillars of Lent are Prayer, Fasting, and Almsgiving.
Prayer is always a discipline, but Lent provides an opportunity to focus our prayer on the Paschal Mystery. The greatest prayer certainly is the Mass and the reception of the Eucharist. During Lent, spend some time in private as well as communal prayer.
Fasting is observed on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday by those between the ages of 18-60. On a fast day, one full meal and two small humble meals are the norm. One should fast from eating between these meals. Abstinence, when no meat is allowed, is observed by all 14 years of age or older (Ash Wednesday and Lenten Fridays).
Almsgiving is the 3rd discipline of Lent. Please consider a charity to support, give to the Parish Poor Box, or bake a casserole pan for our Daily Bread. Advocate for the poor through the General Assembly of Maryland - Attend Lobby Night!