Lent is a time when Christians can separate from the world. It can lead to a deeper exploration of the faith and is based on the pillars of prayer, fasting and almsgiving. 

Lent is a shortened version of the Old English word ‘lencten’, a word which means spring (the season). Over the years, the word Lent came to be linked to the Christian tradition of fasting before Easter, which always happened in spring.

One of the important features of the time period is that immediately before he began his years of travelling, Jesus spent 40 days in the desert fasting and preparing for his ministry.

In most Christian denominations, Lent starts with Ash Wednesday. This is signified by placing ashes on the foreheads of the faithful as a sign of repentance to God.

The official colour for Lent is purple. Usually, churches that celebrate Lent choose the darkest shade of purple for this season. Purple is the colour of repentance for sins.

Mother’s Day is actually a part of Lent. The Sundays of Lent are special for Christians everywhere. In the UK, the fourth of these Sundays is known as Mothering Sunday. Mothering Sunday was originally all about returning to your home (or ‘mother’) church, and eventually it became a celebration of motherhood.

Having a reason to reflect and do something different to our usual routines can be extremely beneficial for our personal growth. Often, we may not realise the need for reflection and taking things slowly especially in a busy world. We fail to see our faults and failings but there are things we can change about ourselves if we wish to form new habits.

Dedicating time to prayer, fasting and almsgiving also helps to nurture the goodness in us and helps others in need.

However you choose to spend this time, I would like to wish you all a fruitful season of Lent.

Thank you for reading. And don’t forget, spread your smile 😊