The season of Lent lasts for forty days (not including Sundays). It is a time when Christians reflect and prepare for the celebrations of Easter. Some people fast, eat frugally or give up treats following the example of Jesus, who fasted for forty days in the wilderness.

People also give to charity, set aside time to study the Bible and meet with other Christians to reflect on Jesus’ life and prepare for the events of Holy Week and Easter. 

In Church we have a selection of books that people might like to borrow to read during Lent. Just pop in and ask.

Other things you could do during Lent include signing up for a daily relection by email from here: https://www.churchofengland.org/faith-life/what-we-believe/lent-holy-week-and-easter/living-hope-lent-reflections or using the Everyday Faith app which you can find here: https://www.churchofengland.org/faith-life/exploring-faith/everyday-faith

Ash Wednesday is the first day of Lent. Ashes made from palm crosses are blessed and are used to make crosses on people’s foreheads. The custom dates back to the middle ages.

Ash Wednesday services set the tone for Lent, with sombre readings and hymns and a focus on penitence (saying sorry for and turning away from sin).

“Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return. Turn away from sin and be faithful to Christ.”

Here’s a prayer for Lent:

Holy God,
our lives are laid open before you:
rescue us from the chaos of sin
and through the death of your Son
bring us healing and make us whole
in Jesus Christ our Lord
Amen.

During the pandemic we had to have an online Ash Wednesday service and Andy showed people how to make their own ash. If you’re interested in seeing how to do it you can watch here: