What to do to observe Lent

Lent is a period from February 22nd of this year to 6th April. Observances that are practiced are fasting, abstaining from certain kinds of meat (except seafood), alms giving and praying. Christians observe Lent to celebrate Jesus Christ fasting for 40 days and 40 nights and subsequently not giving into Satan’s temptations either before beginning his public ministry.

Lent is also celebrated by Messianic Jews or Jewish Christians to celebrate both Jesus’ victory over Satan’s temptation and the 40 days where Moses led the Jews into the Desert.

Most Christians read a daily devotional or prayer through the Lenten calendar, to draw themselves closer to God. Stations of the Cross are also put up in order to be observed in Churches and Homes all around the world.

Obligation of Fasting

The Church tells us not to eat before Noon, and after only one meal a day (usually preferred to be eaten at noon) with a collation allowed in the evening.

The reason why we fast like this is so we don’t fill our lives with the Deadly Sin of Gluttony. Whilst this may seem like a challenge for some, it is important to restrict ourselves when “letting loose” causes us to sin.

However if you are already a one-meal a day person, you will not have much issue with this, and you can incorporate praying before your meals as a way to properly commemorate the fasting period and bring you closer to the Lord.

Obligation of Abstaining from Certain Foods

On Wednesdays and Fridays, Christians are obligated during Lent by the Church not to eat meat except when it comes to seafood. If you find this quite impossible due to your situation, it is encouraged to contact your local Spiritual Father (Priest or Pastor) for advice.

Meat is considered by the Church to be one of the foods most associated with Lust and Wrath, and it is important to not eat these foods during Wednesdays and Fridays in Lent in order to get away from the temptations of the Devil and closer to God.