A holy time of preparation 
Lent begins March 2

By DIANE SCHLINDWEIN
Managing Editor 

Lent is the 40-day, penitential season of preparation for the celebration of the Lord’s Resurrection at Easter. It begins on Ash Wednesday (March 2) and ends at sundown on Holy Thursday with the beginning of the paschal triduum (Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday — April 14-16). 

Pope Francis has said this of Lent: “Let us not allow this season of grace to pass in vain! Let us ask God to help us set out on a path of true conversion.” 

So, consider taking advantage of the Lenten season by reading Scripture, attending daily Mass, practicing self-control by fasting, giving alms, or by doing an act of charity. Remember, Lent is not just about abstaining from luxuries but is about seeking true inner conversion of heart. 

Lenten regulations

All the Christian faithful are urged to develop and maintain a voluntary program of self-denial (in addition to the Lenten regulations that follow), serious prayer, and performing deeds of charity and mercy, including the giving of alms. 

Abstinence — Everyone 14 years of age and over is bound to abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday (March 2) and all the Fridays of Lent. 

Fasting — Everyone 18 years of age and under 59 is required to fast on Ash Wednesday (March 2) and Good Friday (April 15). On these two days of fast and abstinence, only one full meatless meal is permitted. Two other meatless meals, sufficient to maintain strength, may be taken according to each person’s needs, but together these should not equal another full meal. Eating between meals is not permitted, but liquids (including milk and fruit juices) are allowed.

Remember, to disregard completely the law of fast and abstinence is seriously sinful.