I was asked this last Lent, “Are you a vegetarian?” “No- I am Catholic and it is Lent” as I munched  away on my baconless egg sandwich from Panera. But Lent is more than just no meat on Fridays and giving up chocolate.

‌Lent is a time to go into the desert with the Lord, a time to share in the suffering, and a time to remember that my sins are what put Jesus on the cross at Calvary.

‌This season of Lent is probably one of the easiest ways to give liturgical living a go and truly embrace this season of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving.

‌How can we prepare for this beautiful season?

‌1. Pray- ask the Lord to open your heart to what habits you need to adopt or that you need to drop. A wise priest advised during a marriage prep session that for Lent, I should adopt a personal habit that would then bless my future marriage. This advice was life changing! A way to have your prayer items handy is our beautiful handmade pouches. They fit on the cover of your Bible or planner and are big enough to hold your rosary, favorite pen, and a prayer card. Pray a family Rosary

2. Fast- fasting can take on many forms from just food. The USCCB has a detailed guide to best adhere to this Lenten practice. Some years, pregnancy, nursing or other health concerns may alter the fast from food but instead present an opportunity to fast from another thing such as tv after dinner, setting a timer for your social media apps, music, or that second cup of coffee.

‌3. Almsgiving- this is more than simply giving money. It is an act of justice that pleases the heart of God. Some ideas may be to print and download our free spiritual bouquet and give a Mass, Rosary, or holy hour to a friend, family member, or better yet, to the homeless or incarcerated. Give up complaining. Use our DIY sacrifice beads throughout Lent to make offerings to those in your home or in your community.

We have a couple of items to make your Lent more meaningful and our prayer is that they draw you to the Lord.

Offer It Up Lent Mug

‌Most importantly, Lent is about drawing closer to the Lord, not reengaging with your New Year’s resolution or taking part in a fad diet. Let the Holy Spirit guide you. And we pray that you have a blessed Lent.