Father in Heaven,
Protect us in our struggle against evil.
As we begin the discipline of Lent,
make this season holy by our self-denial.
Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit
one God, for ever and ever.–Opening Collect for Ash Wednesday Liturgy
The liturgical season of Lent not only prepares us to celebrate Christ’s Resurrection at Easter but is meant to prepare us and our families to more closely reflect Christ to a world in need of Christian witnesses.
As Lent begins, we are marked with ashes as an outward symbol of our own commitment to repentance. At Easter, we will be sprinkled with holy water and renew our Baptismal promises, an affirmation of our death to sin and new life in Christ.
Just as Christ entered into the desert for 40 days to prepare for his public ministry, Lent is our “training ground” by means of the spiritual tools of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving.
As Christ gave up His flesh on the cross, we abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday, Good Friday and all Fridays in Lent as a small, self-sacrifice reminding us of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice.
May we see this Lent as an invitation to seek God with our whole hearts, so that we may then point our homes and our world to Him. Utilize the resources here to help you on your journey.
Lenten Family Nights
Below, you will find materials to help you develop family rituals at home including: praying, preparing a meatless meal, watching a family movie, and sharing discussion. These can be done in any order.
Pray
Come together as a family to pray, contemplate heaven, and enjoy tortellini
Fast
Sacrifice can be difficult, but it prepares us for better things. Learn more over some shrimp tacos
Give
Who are the outcasts among us? Explore this question and enjoy some noodles
40 Ways in 40 Days
Looking for ideas to pray, fast, and give alms this Lent? Click below to download the free flyer with 40 ideas to live a great Lent!
