The First Day of Lent

Today is the Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent. This day marks the beginning of the 40 days of this penitential season meant to prepare us for the death of resurrection of Jesus. There are many ways we can observe Lent as individuals, as families, and as a larger community.

As a community of Catholics, we are called to certain observances throughout Lent, which were published in last week's bulletin. Here is the recap:

"NORMS FOR LENTEN OBSERVANCE The liturgical season of Lent begins February 18. The following are guidelines of Lenten observance for the faithful in the Archdiocese of Ottawa. • Ash Wednesday is a day of fast and abstinence. • Fridays are days of abstinence. Fasting binds all persons who have completed their 18th birthday through those who have completed their 59th year, unless prevented by poor health. On days of fast, one full meal is allowed. Two other meals, sufficient to maintain strength, may be taken according to one’s own needs. Eating between meals is not allowed although fluids may be taken. Abstinence binds all persons who have completed their 14th birthday, unless prevented by poor health. In the Archdiocese of Ottawa, the consumption of meat is not allowed on Ash Wednesday, Good Friday, and all Fridays of Lent. The Archbishop mandates this observance for the spiritual well-being of the faithful. Lent is a penitential season and, as such, religious practices such as daily Mass, the celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation, the Stations of the Cross, works of charity and justice, and acts of self-denial are highly encouraged."

As individuals and families, there are lots of resources out there and you can choose the traditions or activities that will work best for yourself and your family. The main idea is that you choose something or a few things that will help you and your family grow spiritually. Do not choose the things that seems the easiest, or the most convenient, or the same thing you did last year, or the same things as your neighbours. Choose the activities that will challenge you to grow, that will encourage you to follow Jesus more closely and to develop a deeper relationship with God. Everyone has a unique relationship with God as we are all unique individuals, so don't be scared to do something different and to try something new. 

Here is a link to a few great suggestions from one of the my favourite blogs. I like that this post is broken down into the different stages of Lent (i.e. Ash Wednesday, Lent, Holy Week, etc.) so it is quite easy to follow: http://www.catholicicing.com/lenten-activities-for-children/

There are also two great resources (I am sure there are more, but these are the ones I stumbled upon. If you found others on your own, please let me know so I can share them with the group) to help adults and kids in this Lenten journey. 

For adults, I encourage you to check out this initiative from Matthew Kelly (a great Catholic author) called 'The Best Lent Ever.' My husband and I are taking part in this program this year and are very excited to see where it takes us. To take part, you need to sign up with your email and you will be sent an email everyday with either a video, a quote, a scripture reading--something to help you in your spiritual journey.Take a peek at the video at this website to learn more and sign up: http://dynamiccatholic.com/bestlentever/#signup

For kids, there is a similar program called 'Lenten Journey' at Holy Heroes. There is also an intro video, and all you need to do is input your email and you will emails throughout Lent to share with your kids: http://www.holyheroes.com/Holy-Heroes-Lenten-Adventure-s/37.htm#roadmap

ALSO, a reminder that St. Augustine will celebrate ASH WEDNESDAY with the distribution of ASHES tonight at 7 pm in the Church. 

I hope you find these helpful in your Lenten journey! Please let me know if you have any Lenten activities to share with the group!