What is the Season of Lent?

Lent is a season in the Christian calendar that lasts for 40 days (not counting Sundays) leading up to Easter. It begins on Ash Wednesday and ends on Holy Saturday, the day before Easter Sunday.

Lent is a time of reflection, prayer, and spiritual growth. It’s a season where Christians focus on their relationship with God by practicing self-discipline, such as fasting from certain foods or habits, spending more time in prayer, or engaging in acts of kindness.

The 40-day length of Lent is inspired by the time Jesus spent fasting in the wilderness before beginning His ministry (Matthew 4:1-11). Many Christians use this time to prepare their hearts for Easter, when we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

While some people give something up for Lent (like sweets or social media), others take on new practices—such as daily devotionals, acts of service, or intentional gratitude.

At our church, we observe Lent through worship, prayer, and community gatherings, helping one another to grow deeper in faith as we journey toward Easter together.

No matter where you are in your faith journey, Lent is an opportunity to slow down, reflect, and experience God’s grace in a fresh way.

Common Questions About Lent

Why does Lent last 40 days?

Lent is 40 days long because it reflects the 40 days that Jesus spent fasting in the wilderness before beginning His ministry (Matthew 4:1-11). It is a time for Christians to prepare their hearts for Easter through prayer, fasting, and reflection.

Why does Lent begin with Ash Wednesday?

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent and serves as a day of repentance and humility. The ashes remind us of our mortality and our need for God’s grace. When ashes are placed on a person’s forehead, the words “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return” (Genesis 3:19) or “Repent and believe the gospel” are spoken as a call to reflection and renewal.

Why do we use palm ashes?

The ashes used on Ash Wednesday come from the palm branches from the previous year’s Palm Sunday. These palms were originally waved in celebration of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, but by burning them into ashes, they serve as a reminder that our praise can be fleeting and that we need to turn our hearts back to God.

Why is purple the color of Lent?

Purple is the liturgical color of Lent because it represents both royalty and repentance. It reminds us of Jesus’ kingship, as well as the humility and suffering He endured on the way to the cross. Purple has historically been a color of mourning and self-reflection, making it a fitting choice for this season of preparation.

Do I have to give something up for Lent?

Not necessarily. While many people choose to "fast" from something (like sweets, social media, or certain habits) as a form of spiritual discipline, others choose to add something—like extra time in prayer, acts of kindness, or serving others. The goal is to grow closer to God and prepare your heart for Easter.

Why are Sundays not counted in the 40 days of Lent?

Sundays are considered “mini-Easters,” days of celebration even during Lent. Because every Sunday is a reminder of Christ’s resurrection, they are not included in the penitential count of Lent’s 40 days.

What is Holy Week?

Holy Week is the final week of Lent, leading up to Easter. It includes:

Palm Sunday – When Jesus entered Jerusalem, greeted by crowds waving palm branches.
Maundy Thursday – The day of the Last Supper, when Jesus washed His disciples' feet and instituted the Lord’s Supper (Communion).
Good Friday – The day of Jesus’ crucifixion, a solemn day of remembrance.
Holy Saturday – A day of waiting and reflection before Easter Sunday.