How to Use Lent as a Time of Repentance

Lent symbolizes the 40 days that Catholics believe Jesus spent in the desert resisting the temptation of the devil. This period of observance begins on Ash Wednesday and ends on Holy Thursday, leading up the celebration of Easter. It is traditionally a time that Catholics use for repentance, to reflect on their sins and ask forgiveness.

Instructions

1. Receive ashes on Ash Wednesday, the first official day of Lent. During the mass on Ash Wednesday, the priest will mark your forehead with black ashes in the shape of a cross. The ashes symbolize repentance because they were believed to have been used in the time of the Bible to express sorrow for one's sins. Don't remove the ashes you receive on Ash Wednesday until the sun goes down. The ashes are meant to be worn all day to encourage humility.

2. Eat only one full meal on Ash Wednesday. Fasting, which traditionally was practiced throughout Lent but has more recently only been done on Ash Wednesday, can bring you a greater sense of appreciation for the poor and hungry. Usually only people over the age of 18 and younger than 60 are encouraged to fast, as this act of repentance is not meant to harm anyone's health.

3. Give food and clothing to local charities for use by the homeless and less fortunate as an act of almsgiving during Lent. Offer up the donation as a form of repentence.

4. Decorate your home in purple. This color represents penance in the Catholic Church, symbolizing the pain and suffering of Jesus during the crucifixion. It also represents royalty, suggesting the resurrection of Jesus as the son of God. Use purple cloths and candles and other purple objects throughout your home during Lent.

5. Take time to pray specifically for repentance every day during Lent. Think about the temptations you face and ask God for strength to overcome these sins. Implore God's forgiveness for the errors you have already made. Remind yourself that Catholics believe that happiness in life is achieved through following the words of God.

6. Talk to your priest about ongoing church activities during Lent which promote repentance. Most churches offer group functions during Lent to provide a full spiritual experience for parishioners. Community events often include prayer groups, community service projects and group Bible readings.