About Lent 2008
Lent begins on Ash Wednesday (6 Feb 2008) and ends with the start of the Triduum on the Thursday before Easter. (23 March 2008)
Christians throughout the world observe Lent as a time of prayer, reflection, fasting and repentance in preparation for Easter.
The word Lent originally came from a middle English word meaning lengthen or Spring season, and during Lent the days are getting lighter, and dormant life starts to grow again.
In the early church Lent was celebrated as a time when the catechumens (adults preparing to become Catholics) completed their final stage of preparation. It is still a very significant time for the catechumens following the RCIA Programme in our Parishes.
In our churches during Lent, the colour purple is used much, as this colour symbolizes penance and repentance.
Flowers and decorations are used sparingly, and music is more serious. At Easter this gives way to a tremendous beauty and vibrancy and celebration in our churches - as they reflect the journey of Christ through suffering and death to resurrection and new life.
During the week before Easter we celebrate Holy Week; starting with Palm Sunday and continuing through to the Easter Vigil. The Easter Vigil is the major celebration in the church's year.