Of all the Christian seasons, Lent is not exactly known as festive. It is a 40-day period of personal sacrifice and penance that culminates with the much more colorful Sunday of Easter, on April 20 in 2025.
In modern Christian tradition, people talk about giving something up for Lent. This tradition originates from early Christian practices of fasting and penance as preparation for the joyous Easter.
The 40-day period of Lent, established by the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD, was inspired by biblical events such as Jesus fasting in the wilderness for 40 days, as well as Moses and Elijah's fasting periods.
Early Christians initially observed Lent as a time of repentance and reflection, particularly for baptism candidates who fasted before their initiation on Easter.
The practice has evolved over centuries, with strict fasting rules in the 5th to 9th centuries that gradually relaxed over time. By the Middle Ages, the idea of personal sacrifice during Lent became more common, symbolizing penance and spiritual discipline. This tradition remains rooted in the biblical and historical emphasis on fasting and self-denial as acts of devotion.
In 2025, Lent runs from March 5 to April 17. Holy Week is April 13 to April 19.
