On Ash Wednesday, Christians across the world will mark the beginning of Lent—a six week period of repentance and sacrifice leading up to Easter.
It’s a holy day occurring 40 days (not including Sundays) before the Easter holiday where believers will begin a period of fasting and prayer. In the spirit of sacrifice, many will give up something for the season that is close to them, an indulgence from their everyday lives.
Deacon Rudy Sepulveda of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish in McAllen said he has seen followers give up their favorite beverage, eating red meat, watching their favorite show and a favorite meal.
“When we give up something, then let’s also do something good… maybe giving more time to a charity or our time to helping the needy,” said Sepulveda.
In the Catholic Church, followers will abstain from eating meat and reflect on their transgressions during this day.
The practice is common amongst Anglicans, Methodists, Catholics, Baptists and Lutherans.
The Lenten season signifies the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the desert, where he suffered temptation from Satan, according the Bible.
Ash Wednesday gets its name from the practice of placing ashes on the foreheads of believers to signify inner repentance and mourning, as well as a reminder and celebration of human integrity. A priest or minister marks the forehead with black ashes in the sign of a cross and the person will typically leave it on until the end of the day.
“It’s more about making a life changing experience so we can change for the better; the beginning of a new life” added Sepulveda.
When fasting during Lent, he also advises to go deeper than just cutting out meat from your meal. “It should be an interior change of the heart to serve the Lord and to keep that remaining.” In other words, keep whatever you gave up or partook in during this time; go past Lent and into your daily life.
What will you be giving up for Lent this year? Will it be a permanent change or just until Easter?
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