Lent, 2025
Dear Friends,
We are now on the threshold of the season of Lent. It is observed by many denominations, especially by Christian followers. As we know, it is a time of reflection, penance, and especially spiritual growth. Obviously, Lent will always remain a time of preparation and renewal, and it is a time to truly deepen our relationship with the Lord.
The history of Lent truly goes back to the early Christian church, which dates back to the 4th Century. In the beginning, it was seen as a time for new converts to the faith and for them to prepare for baptism at the Easter Vigil. There is a special significance to the fact that Lent has 40 days. It reminds us of Jesus fasting for 40 days in the desert. It emphasizes the elements of sacrifice, temptation, and spiritual strength. It is undoubtedly an encouragement to embrace our faith more deeply.
As Catholic Christians, we are aware of the three major elements that we are to embrace more fully in Lent: the pillars of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. These elements are pinpointed throughout the Lenten season in the Scriptures in homilies that help us renew our commitment.
It is in prayer that we are focused on reflection with our relationship with God and a special petition to be guided and strengthened in our spiritual walk. The most stressful element of Lent is fasting, not just because of food but because of areas of our lives where we have veered from the path and have fallen into sin. Fasting can heal those areas that have kept us from a closer unity with God and replace these distractions so that we can embrace more meaningful pursuits for our spiritual growth.
Lent is truly a time to remember and embrace our dependence on God’s grace. We are called to seek the food that will last forever and will fulfill our hunger for what is essential and necessary for hope in eternal life. Recall the Baltimore Catechism and the question we were called to: “Why did God make you?” Remember the answer we were expected to know: “God made me to know him, love him and serve him in this world, and be happy with him forever in the next.” It is a good reflection for Lent, especially if we desire to embrace eternal life at the end of our lives.
Pope Benedict XVI of blessed memory has this instruction of entering Lent and which he considers the authentic and central program during these holy days of Lent: Listening to the Word of truth, to live and speak the truth and do act upon that truth; above all to reject lies that poison humanity and are the door to all evils. In the central truth of our faith, we will become aware of who we are, where we come from, where we must go, and what path we must take in life. May you have a blessed Lent!
f. Abbot Sharbel Ewen, O.S.B.
Prince of Peace Abbey
