The Season of Lent is the 6 weeks (or 40 days) leading up to Easter, beginning on Ash Wednesday. Sundays are not included in the 40 days of Lent, because each Sunday is a mini-celebration of the resurrection of our Lord. Ash Wednesday gets its name from the practice of using ashes to mark the sign of the cross on the foreheads of worshipers as a public sign of repentance. The ashes come from the burning of the palm branches from the previous year’s Palm Sunday service. At the evening Ash Wednesday service, a special Children’s Time will explain why we use ashes and what the season of Lent is all about.
Lent is a time of preparation for the mystery and celebration of Easter. It is traditionally a time of reflection, repentance and remembering the life, teachings and miracles of Jesus. Children can enjoy learning about Jesus’ life and remembering their favorite stories about Jesus. Many people give up something for Lent as a reminder of the season, while others take on a new spiritual discipline (such as prayers, journaling, Bible study or acts of charity). Consider making a commitment as a family to be intentional about observing Lent in some way.
Ways to Observe Lent in your Home:
- Read a scripture from Jesus’ life at bedtime each day during Lent. If every day is too much, read a story each of the 6 Sundays during Lent.
- Perform an act of kindness each week.
- Find somewhere to serve as a family: a soup kitchen, the Food Bank, a nursing home, etc.
- Give up going out to eat or buying treats such as ice cream and sodas during Lent and donate the money saved.
- At special prayers for repentance at mealtimes or bedtimes.
- Sign up to receive our weekly Children's Ministry Update e-newsletter. I'll be including weekly scriptures and activities you can do for Lent with your family in your home! Click here to get on our mailing list!