Behold, now is a very acceptable time; behold, now is the day of salvation. (2 Cor 5:20-6:2)

Lent is a holy season rich in tradition and history. In the early Church, Lent was the time for the final preparation of catechumens (those who have answered the call of the Holy Spirit to become fully initiated Catholic Christians) for baptism at Easter, a custom that has been restored in our day as part of the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA). Lent later became a time for public penance for serious sinners, who reconciled themselves to the Church through prayer, fasting, and rituals such as the imposition of ashes. In our modern era, Lent is a season of prayer and repentance for all Christians in preparation for the celebration of the Easter mysteries.

The Catholic Church begins the holy season of Lent with Ash Wednesday, a day that calls us to deep prayer and repentance. These liturgies will include the Distribution of Ashes, an ancient tradition that reminds us of our need to turn away from sin. All are welcome to come forward and receive ashes, whether or not you are Catholic.

Lent is a blessed opportunity for us to deepen our relationship with God. Traditionally, Catholics do this by such practices as daily Mass, daily Rosary, self-denial (“giving something up” to help us stay focused on God), service to the community, and fasting. Other ideas include increased “quality time” with family, going on a Retreat or Day of Recollection, reading the Bible, and the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) – all good practices that will help lead us to closer to God.

2026 Lenten Message from Pope Leo

• Parishioner Betty Arrigotti has offered a weekly Lenten email series for the past 18 years! This year, her series theme will focus on Searching for Meaning. Betty has a Master of Arts in Counseling and a certificate in Spiritual Direction, as well as seven published inspirational novels. Click here to contact Betty and sign-up for her weekly Lenten emails (if you've been on her list before, you don't need to resubscribe).

• USCCB 2026 Lenten Calendar

Join us every Friday evening during Lent for Soup Supper and Stations of the Cross, hosted by different Parish ministry groups. The simple Soup Supper with bread/crackers begins at 6:00pm in Fireside; Stations will begin at 7:00pm in the Church. Though the gesture is appreciated, please do not bring additional bread or goodies to share. You are welcome to join us for one of both parts of the evening! If you aren't able or comfortable joining us to pray the Stations in-person, we have a number of different versions you can pray with at home.