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March 08, 2011

observing lent

The Season of Lent starts this week on Ash Wednesday and lasts until the day before Easter.  The duration of Lent is forty days, reflecting the periods of forty years that the Israelites spent in the wilderness before entering the Promised Land and forty days that Jesus fasted in the wilderness following his baptism.  Originating in the fourth century as the time of preparation for baptism of new Christians, the season is traditionally observed chiefly through prayer, as well as penitence and self-denial, and focuses on the cross and union with Christ through baptism.

If you are considering how to observe Lent, here are a few things to check out:
  • Follow this plan for Bible reading and prayer provided by Covenant Presbyterian in Chicago (print versions will be available on Sundays at Grace)