The season of Lent spans approximately 40 days before Easter, serving as a period of reflection on Jesus' death and resurrection. Beginning with Ash Wednesday immediately following Carnival, it marks a transition from celebration to solemnity.

While Carnival traditionally represented a time of indulgence and clearing pantries before fasting, Lent encourages modesty and spiritual growth. Many Christians observe this period through fasting and adopting a more temperate lifestyle in preparation for Good Friday and Easter celebrations.

The word "Lent" derives from the Anglo Saxon "lencten," meaning "spring." The forty-day duration mirrors Jesus' time in the wilderness, where he faced temptation from Satan and prepared for his ministry and baptism. Sundays are not counted in these forty days, as they're considered mini-Easter celebrations.

Modern Lent Observance:

• Focus on strengthening relationship with God
• Traditional fasting from food
• Contemporary practices like social media fasting
• Volunteer work and helping others
• Self-examination and spiritual reflection

Originally, Lent served as preparation time for new converts awaiting Easter baptism. Today, it remains a significant period for Christians to deepen their faith through various forms of sacrifice and spiritual discipline.

Sundays during Lent are treated differently, serving as joyful anticipations of Christ's resurrection rather than days of penitence.

Related Christian Observances:

• Carnival
• Palm Sunday
• Good Friday
• Easter Sunday
• Pentecost

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