Dear Editor

TODAY, we begin to observe the Season of Lent. It is one of the important seasons for many Christian denominations. Lent means ‘spring’; it is a springtime where we are renewed and refreshed through the Lenten observances. We are washed clean so that we enter into paschal mysteries of Christ’s death and resurrection. The Latin-based language use the word “Quaresma” for Lent, which simply means 40 days. After the baptism, Jesus was tempted and tried in the desert for 40 days and 40 nights, whilst he was in prayer and fasting. Ash Wednesday is the beginning of Lent. On this day, the faithful are imposed with ashes on their foreheads as a reminder to be repentant and of the fragility of humankind.

The four pillars of Lent, prayer, penance, almsgiving and fasting help not only the people in need but makes us empathise with the poor and needy. The Season of Lent ends when Holy Week begins on Maundy Thursday, leading up to the Easter Celebrations.

Christians tend to keep fast on certain days in Lent, or at least forgo something like meat, chocolate or sweets, and help those who cannot afford such food. This is to benefit one’s spiritual and philanthropic growth. A crucial aspect of Lent is reconciliation and peace. Our world needs to be reconciled between nations and peoples. Here’s an opportunity to embrace each other with paternal love.

Regards
Jerri Dias