The history of Lent
The word Lent comes from the Anglo-Saxon word “lencten” meaning “spring”, and which is related to the verb “lengthen”, because this is the time of year when the days begin to get noticeably longer. It was developed by the early church as a time of preparation for the coming of Easter and is characterized as a season of reflection and contemplation, not unlike Advent.
We often think of it as a time of “giving up” something, in part as a reminder that Christ gave his life for us. But that is a more modern adaptation from the early church where people acknowledged Jesus as their Lord and Savior and committed to “give” their life to Christ, which culminated in baptism at Easter.
The 40 days of Lent were established in AD 325 at the Council of Nicaea. By the 7th century, Ash Wednesday marked the beginning of the 40 days of Lent. However, since Sundays are a weekly “celebration” of the death and resurrection of Christ, they are not counted among the 40 days. Therefore, Ash Wednesday is actually 46 days before Easter.
Lent Resources
The Good of Giving Up
(YouVersion app 7-day plan)
The Good of Giving Up is an evangelical case for Lent and a guide to its practice. This seven-day plan gives a brief history of Lent and shows how to observe Lent with proper motivation. The Good of Giving Up will encourage you to participate in what many know as a rich spiritual journey.
What is Lent?
(YouVersion app 4-day plan)
Kids Bible Experience Plan. “Get this place clean! We are having company!” Does this sound familiar? When something important is coming our way, we prepare for it! This plan will help you explore how you can prepare your heart for Easter by participating in a time of reflection and reverence called Lent. Let’s get started today!
The Daily Examen
(pdf file)
The Daily Examen was developed centuries ago by Ignatius Loyola. It’s an approach to noticing God’s presence and discerning God’s direction by praying through and reflecting on the events of your day.
The 2024 Lent Project
(daily readings sent directly to your email)
Each day of the Lent Project features a Scripture passage, a devotional written by a member of the Biola community, a work of fine art, a poem, and a piece of music. This Lenten season we will be focusing on the Apostle Paul and his writings which have had a major influence on the development of Christian theology and the worldwide Church. Click on the button below to subscribe to the daily email.
Pray As You Go
(website and app)
Many different guided prayer resources and meditations to help enrich and deepen your prayers and daily faith journey. This initiative is through the Catholic/Jesuit community in the UK.