Guidelines for Lent Season
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Easter is a significant Christian holiday that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, which is believed to have occurred on the third day after his crucifixion, around 30 AD. It is the culmination of the Passion of Jesus, preceded by Lent, a 40-day period of fasting, prayer, and penance.
The date of Easter varies each year and is observed on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox. This means it can fall anywhere between March 22 and April 25.
In the Christian calendar, Lent, which lasts for 40 days (not including Sundays) before Easter, begins on Ash Wednesday. On this day, ashes are applied on the foreheads of many Christians who attend a church service in the form of a cross. Usually created by burning the palm branches from the previous year's Palm Sunday, the ashes represent repentance.
The Biblical custom of using ashes to symbolize grief for transgressions and a want for atonement and rejuvenation is the foundation of the tradition. This period is dedicated to reflective thinking, prayer, and fasting.
Lent is a time for reflection, penance, and spiritual growth.
Roman Catholic Church:
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Ash Wednesday and Good Friday:
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Fasting: Adults aged 18-59 should fast, which means having one full meal and two smaller meals that together do not equal a full meal. No snacks are allowed.
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Abstinence: Everyone aged 14 and older should abstain from eating meat.
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Fridays during Lent:
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Abstinence: Everyone aged 14 and older should abstain from eating meat.
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Personal Sacrifices:
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Many people choose to give up certain luxuries or take on extra disciplines during Lent, such as giving up sweets, coffee, or social media, or committing to extra prayer or charitable acts.
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Exceptions:
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Those who are ill, pregnant, nursing, or have other health conditions are exempt from fasting and abstinence requirements.
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