With the Lenten season approaching quickly it is important to remember what is the purpose for lent. During Lent we honor three pillars, Prayer, Almsgiving, and Fasting. 

During this time, it is important to use it to strengthen your relationship with God. Lent allows individuals to take personal time away to pray and worship God. The main prayers to pray are Hail Mary and Our Father. We pray a little extra during Lent to resemble how Jesus prayed for 40 days and 40 nights to His father while being tempted by the devil. 

“During Lent I make sure to say an extra Hail Mary after I do my nightly prayer,” junior Gwenny Roberts said.  

The second pillar we honor is Almsgiving. Almsgiving is a time to give back to your community and to provide for those who need help. You can donate your time, donate money, or even just do simple services in your community. 

“My family always likes to help out with different food drives that my church hosts during the Lenten season,” senior Keeley Skiljan said.  

Fasting is a huge aspect of the lenten season. During this time, Catholics are not allowed to eat red meat on any Fridays during Lent. They also may not eat meat on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. It is also important to reduce the amount of food you eat. This is done by eating only one large meal a day and eating two smaller or snack meals.

“I like the idea of fasting during Lent because it makes me realize all that Jesus has done for us,” senior Jack Jones said. 

During Lent, fasting is also shown in a different light. This is by giving up something you either considered a luxury or an addiction. This is to symbolize all the sacrifices Jesus made during his journey. 

“During Lent I have decided to give up Starbucks because I am addicted and have it way too much,” Literature teacher Ms. Robbins said. 

Lent is the perfect time to use these three pillars to show your commitment to Jesus, and to thank him for all he has done.