This is the time of year that the Christmas decorations are almost gone (except those decorations which are frozen to your lawn), and Lent has not yet begun. Those of us who are oriented toward the Church, know that Lent is coming soon. This year the gap between the Christmas season and Lent is the shortest since 2008. Ash Wednesday is February 10, 2016.
In the past, these Sundays were called Septuagesima Sunday (Third Sunday before Ash Wednesday), Sexagesima Sunday (Second Sunday before Ash Wednesday), and Quinquagesima Sunday (Sunday before Ash Wednesday). These Sundays were pre-Lent which prepares Catholics for the holy season of Lent. Purple vestments were worn. Alleluia ceased to be said during the liturgy. We would ease into Lent.
Today, Ordinary Time focuses on the beginning of Jesus’ ministry. Preparation for Lent comes from knowledge of the calendar and memories of previous years. A question we often hear is “When is Ash Wednesday?”
As we countdown to Ash Wednesday, perhaps it will be beneficial to discuss ways to make this Lent a holy season of preparation for the Triduum, particularly Easter, our most important celebration. Future blog entries will focus on a review and suggestions to make this Lent different from early years.
The question many Catholics ask each other as we approach Ash Wednesday is “What are you giving up for Lent?” Refraining from indulging in a particular treat is a worthy, and not always easy, pursuit. Abstaining from chocolate, desserts, or alcohol is not an easy task, but Lent can be so much more.
Adding to your life, rather than subtracting from your life is a worthy goal. Spending more time with an elderly relative or friend. Choosing entertainment of a spiritual nature, rather than the same secular habit will be beneficial. Making the effort to make someone else’s life better, rather than your own is a good way to spend this Lent, in this Year of Mercy.
In the coming days, we will discuss ways to expand upon Ash Wednesday, and the practices of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. These suggestions will provide some alternatives to your usual Lenten observances.
