Making a Meaningful Lent

Make this Lent a time of Prayer, Fasting and Almsgiving

Wednesday 22 February is Ash Wednesday and marks the beginning of Lent.
The season of Lent of built upon these three core practices – Prayer, Fasting and Charity. During Lent, we are called to walk with our Lord in His sacrifice.

During Lent, we give up some comfort or adopt some spiritual practice that leads to self-examination, repentance from sin, and, ultimately, renewal of the soul, all in anticipation of greater dedication to serving others and God in the coming year.

In contrast to Advent and Easter, Lent is a solemn time. The Sacrament of Reconciliation–where we ask God for forgiveness is synonymous with Lent.

The Stations of the Cross, a tradition often taking place on Fridays during Lent, allow us to pray with of Jesus’s final hours.

Lent draws its inspiration from the 40 days Jesus spent in the desert. The Gospels tell us that after his baptism, Jesus fasted in the desert and then was tempted by the devil. He resisted these temptations and then went to Galilee to begin his ministry.

Help for your Lenten Journey

Take part in the Sacrament of Reconciliation in your own Parish or here at Knock Shrine. Confessions are available daily from 11am-3pm.

Take time to reflect with one of our upcoming Faith Renewal events (details below) or with some Lenten Books and resources to help deepen your understanding of this time and connection to God. Browse our wonderful range of resources available to order from Knock Bookshop.

Stations of the Cross and meditating on the final journey of Christ is another important practice during Lent. Our handy little Stations of the Cross pocket audio player comes with a booklet allowing you to meditate on the Stations with the stunning Station oil paintings in the Basilica which have been reproduced in the booklet. You can also take part in the Stations of the Cross in the Parish Church or Basilica as well as at the outdoor Calvary at Knock Shrine.

Consider the many ways you can help others in need during Lent, whether it be in your own family, community or further afield. From climate crisis to war-torn areas, there are many ways that each of us can help to make a difference in the lives of others.