Lenten Practices Date Back to the Second Century
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Updated: April 17, 2007
"To be prepared for the joyous good news of the resurrection and new life."
The practices surrounding Lent have changed over the centuries. But the theme remains the same.
Mnsg. James Mancini, from St Joseph`s in Tontitown says, "As a preparation for Easter we usually observe it with acts of self denial of some kind. The three traditional ways, Biblical ways are prayer, fasting and alms giving, as signs of repentance and a desire to change our lives for the better."
The length of Lent coincides with several significant Biblical events, the 40 days and nights of flooding, the 40 days Moses spent on the Mount, and the 40 days Jesus was tempted in the desert.
Mnsg. Mancini says, "In addition to the self denial, we are encouraged to practice more devotion, to make our prayers much more heart -felt as well. To emphasize the worship nature of our contacts with God and the meaningful ways to do these three actions."
