Practicing Lent
Prayer – More time given to prayer during Lent will draw us closer to the Lord. We might pray especially for the grace to live out our baptismal promises more fully. We might pray for the elect who will be baptized at Easter and support their conversion journey by our prayer. We might pray for all those who will celebrate the sacrament of reconciliation with us during Lent that they will be truly renewed in their baptismal commitment.
Fasting – If your family celebrates fasting during this season, talk to your kids about why the family isn’t eating meat on Friday. (It is customary that only people who are 18-59 are expected to fast throughout Lent, although some families do decide to include everyone in the meat-fast on Fridays or at least on Good Friday). First, it’s an act of self-denial. In our consumerist society a little self-denial can really teach virtue! Secondly, it’s meant to unify the church with the poor, both locally and throughout the world. Lent has always been a time when individual families, churches and schools collect money for the poor and for missionaries who serve locally and abroad. Giving up meat each week allows families to put that extra money towards this offering. Another way we can instruct our children to “fast” during their Lenten journey is by encouraging them to be more loving to brothers, sisters, and parents. Fasting from arguing with siblings or talking back to parents for 40 days will lead to good practices that might even last past Easter Sunday!
Almsgiving – The third traditional pillar of Lent is a sign of our care for those in need and an expression of our gratitude for all that God has given to us. Works of charity and the promotion of justice are integral elements of the Christian way of life we began when we were baptised. Kids tend to love collecting /saving change for a church offering if they know that this money will be helping others in their community and abroad!
Teach by example. Respect the meaning of Lent yourself and be a good role model for your child. Embrace the rituals you espouse and try to make Lent a period of closeness and reflection for the WHOLE family.
