Lent is a 40-day period, running from March 5 to April 17, focused on prayer, fasting, and giving. Many Foran students decided to give up things that are a significant part of their daily lives, including unhealthy habits.
The first day of Lent, also known as Ash Wednesday, many Christians attend church services to receive ashes on their forehead. This marks the beginning of the Easter preparation.
Additionally, the period includes rules regarding abstinence from meat and fasting on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday.
Senior Caroline Janik states, “During Ash Wednesday, my family and I didn’t eat meat for the start of Lent. I also gave up the Poppi drink.”
For many Christians, observing these traditions is a family practice, strengthening their shared commitment to faith.
Ash Wednesday is observed with prayer and fasting. The ash symbol, typically made from burning palms from the previous year, placed on the forehead represents a sign of repentance emerging around the eighth century in the Christian Church in Rome.
These practices encourage reflection which helps individuals grow closer to their faith through acts of sacrifice.
According to museumofthebible.org, Lent is a time to focus on spiritual life with the three main pillars being prayers, fasting, and almsgiving.
Many people choose to give up something meaningful as a form of sacrifice and self-discipline during this season.
Senior Olivia Dyki states, “I gave up soda for Lent. I drink soda fairly often and knowing how bad it is for you, I decided that this would be the perfect time to try and give it up.”
A common thing to give up for Lent is something that one believes is unhealthy. It’s an opportunity for people to change their lifestyles and complete personal goals.
While some people give up food or drinks, others may choose to limit screen time, practice kindness, or increase their charitable efforts.
By giving up certain habits or dedicating more time to helping others, Lent serves as a meaningful opportunity to refocus on personal and spiritual well-being.
