Almsgiving may be the most neglected aspect of the observance of Lent. We Catholics tend to associate Lent with prayer and fasting, with little emphasis on our neighbor. We are praying in our rooms.

For many Catholics, Lent is associated with fasting. On Ash Wednesday, a favorite topic of Catholics is “What are you giving up for Lent?”  As children, we tried to give up a favorite treat. Candy was the toughest challenge for me. (Mom wouldn’t let me give up vegetables.) We try to discipline ourselves to deny something we will miss not having during this time.