Many know of the tradition of abstaining from meat on Fridays during Lent, but we are also called to practice self-discipline and fast in other ways throughout the season. Contemplate the meaning and origins of the Lenten fasting tradition in thisreflection.
In addition, the giving of alms is one way to share God's gifts—not only through the distribution of money, but through the sharing of our time and talents. As St. John Chrysostom reminds us: "Not to enable the poor to share in our goods is to steal from them and deprive them of life. The goods we possess are not ours, but theirs." (Catechism of the Catholic Church, no. 2446).
Because Lent is a time of conversion, don’t miss out on one of the greatest gifts the Church offers us as we confront our brokenness: the sacrament of confession. Even on a purely human level, there’s something magical about putting words to shame. It’s like shining light in the darkness — it allows you to see clearly and move forward. (Grotto Network)
Ashes, as a Jewish sign of penitence, were accepted by Christians. They are derived from burning palms from the previous year. This outward symbol of private or public sorrow, sadness, or penance, is a proof of humility, a remembrance of our mortality, that we are made of dust and will return to dust. The custom of imposing ashes, is a symbolic act signifying human mortality and total human dependence on the graciousness and mercy of God. ...click here to continue reading.