Lent is a yearly time of reflection, repentance and fasting before the celebration of Easter. Christians remember how their saviour Jesus Christ resisted temptation from the devil while crossing the desert for 40 days.
It is during this time that Christians often go without their luxuries such as food or alcohol and dedicate more of their time to self reflection and bible study.
If you've ever found yourself asking questions about why we have pancakes on Shrove Tuesday or what actually happens on Ash Wednesday at the start of Lent, then don't worry. We've got all the answers for you below.
What is Lent and when does it begin?
Lent is the Christian season of spiritual preparation before Easter. In Western churches, it begins on Ash Wednesday.
During Lent, many Christians observe a period of fasting, repentance and reflection. Forms of fasting include food, drink or other vices. It's used to remember how Jesus resisted temptation from the devil while crossing the desert for 40 days.
Roman Catholics must fast and abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday, Wednesday, February 22, 2023 and Good Friday, April 7, 2023. Additionally, they must abstain from meat on all Fridays during Lent.
As mentioned Ash Wednesday is the start of Lent and as you may have noticed before Ash Wednesday is Shrove Tuesday which you may know as Pancake Day.
