The significance of the forty days of Lent stems from both the Old Testament and the New Testament. Moses and the Hebrews wandered for forty years in the desert before reaching the promised land. Forty steps ascended to the Holy of Holies in the temple at Jerusalem. In the New testament we read about Jesus’ forty days in the desert, where Satan tempted him to give up his mission.



With Jesus and his ancestors in faith, we again dedicate forty days to spending time with God in the deserts of our lives during the Church’s season of Lent. We go into the deserts of our hearts to discover what we need to do to prepare for the new life that Jesus offers us again on Easter.

The Church calls us to focus on prayer, sacrifice, and good works during Lent. Our prayers may become more frequent or longer. Our sacrifices may include fasting and abstaining—both required of most Catholics during this season. Good works could mean working with the poor, or simply spending more quality time with our families and friends. Staying focused during Lent is often difficult. The struggles of daily life may keep us from our preparation for Easter. However we spend the season of Lent, may we discover the risen Christ awaiting us with his gifts of peace, joy, and new life.


Family Activity

	Invite family members to think of one special act of kindness or one special sacrifice they will do for Lent and to make a Lenten promise.

	•		Distribute small slips of paper for recording promises.
	•		Then collect the slips of paper, place them in a clear jar, and put it in a special place for everyone to see it.
	•		Share that the jars of Lenten good acts and sacrifices will remind everyone of their promises.

See the Liturgical Calendar on this site for additional information.
See also Catechist—Lent or Teacher—Lent for Liturgy.