As the Lenten season has begun, we cannot forget what things are most important during this time. We take part in this Lenten season by following three pillars; Prayer, Almsgiving, and Fasting. The teachers here at St. Dominic, have been setting a perfect example for us students in how to participate in each of these pillars.
Almsgiving is a type of charity focused on the individual. It’s donating time, money, services, or resources such as food and clothes to the less fortunate.
“I am re-committing to some food distribution organizations on Saturdays during Lent. This is something I have done and will continue to do regularly during summer break, but will help out on Saturdays during Lent again,” Literature teacher Mrs. Terri Fisher-Reed said.
“During Lent, every day I am trying to do something that will make someone else feel better. This does not have to be something big, just something that makes me feel good, and that I am making a difference such as holding the door open for someone or having candy at my desk,” Mrs. Sally Garrett said.
Lenten fasting is different from regular fasting. Catholics are not allowed to eat meat on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, as well as all other Fridays in Lent. Fasting isn’t strictly giving up food, it can also mean giving up certain luxuries as an imitation of Jesus’ sacrifice during his journey into the desert.
“I am fasting from shopping (except groceries), meaning I am not shopping online or in-store,” Religion teacher Mrs. Debbie Johnson said.
During Lent, the meaning of prayer does not change much. To Catholics, this is a time for an extra opportunity to grow in prayer. This could be many different things, such as simply praying an extra Hail Mary before bed, or attending an extra Mass. Anything to symbolize how Jesus prayed for 40 days and 40 nights to His father while being tempted by the devil.
“I was blessed to go on Kairos during this Lent, and I feel like that gave me new inspiration for prayer! I have been reading passages from a daily prayer book, and making an effort to be more intentional and focused during prayer and mass,” Learning Consultant Katie Haehnel said.
“For my extra form of prayer, I am reading through all of Proverbs this Lent,” Religion teacher Mr. Jack Hogan said.
Overall, these three Lenten pillars are put in place to guide us closer to Christ as we prepare for His second coming. We should take this opportunity to reflect on what God’s plan is for us during this Lenten season, and provide for His people along the way. Have a great Lent!
