Lent, a time to remember Jesus Christ's sacrifice for us
By observing the 40 days of Lent, Christians remember Jesus Christ's sacrifice and withdrawal into the desert for 40 days.
Lent is a time when we fast, pray and give to others. Ash Wednesday 22 February is the beginning of Lent. During Ash Wednesday services a priest or minister will make the sign of the cross with ashes on a worshipper's forehead as a reminder of their need to turn away from sin and be reconciled with God. The ashes are typically made from the burned palm branches from the previous year's Palm Sunday celebration, which symbolizes the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem before his crucifixion. Catholics do not eat meat on Ash Wednesday and Friday's during Lent.
A useful resource Special Times in the Church Year has been developed by The Lismore Catholic Schools Parent Assembly. The leaflet contains links to activities for younger and teenage children that families can do together during Lent.