What is Lent?

We've all seen the beginning of Lent marked in our calendars, but how many of us actually understand the significance of Lent and what it represents? Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, this year this day falls on March 5th and ends on Holy Saturday, the day before Easter Day. The Lent period is 40 days (excluding Sundays) and this is significant because it represents the amount of time Jesus spent in the wilderness, fasting, in preparation for His period of ministry. 

The origins of the Lent period signify for Christians a time of emulating Christ's obedience to the Father and this is often done by 'giving up something for Lent.' We usually give up things like chocolate, treats, food or money as part of our personal spiritual growth during the Lent period.

There are key significant events during Lent, which starts with Ash Wednesday, a day when many churches hold a special service and Christians are given the sign of the cross in ash on their foreheads. The ash symbolises sorrow and mourning over sin and is a reminder of our need for repentance and the reality of human frailty. 

Palm Sunday marks the last Sunday of Lent and the beginning of what is known as the Holy Week,  the last week of Lent and the last days of Jesus's life . Palm Sunday recognises Jesus's arrival in Jerusalem, when people greeted Him with palm leaves and accepted Him as their King.

Maundy Thursday takes place during Holy Week, and it is the day when we remember the Last Supper when Jesus shared a final meal with His disciples and washed their feet. During Maundy Thursday services, it is usual to strip the Sanctuary and Altar, symbolising Jesus's abandonment by the disciples and his stripping in readiness for His crucifixion. The Sanctuary and Altar are stripped bare of decorations, candles and cloths in readiness for the sombreness of Good Friday.

The Good Friday service is a solemn occasion when Christians remember Christs' crucifixion, and His suffering upon the cross for us. It is referred to as 'Good' because of the redemption Jesus secured for us.

Holy Saturday is a day of quiet reflection. Jesus's time in the tomb is remembered and Christians anticipate the joy that is to come on

Easter Sunday, when churches burst forth in celebration - Jesus is alive! His resurrection promises us renewal, new life, hope and the promise of eternal life with Him.

Join us at Christ Church for our Lent and Easter celebrations! 

Sources; Christianity Today; the Church of England; Bible Study Tools