Lent Begins March 5 Amid Pope’s Health Recovery Concerns
VATICAN CITY, Italy — Lent, a 40-day season of prayer, fasting, and giving, commences on March 5, 2025, with Ash Wednesday. This year, the observance gains added significance as Pope Francis remains hospitalized due to a respiratory illness.
Pope Francis was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14, 2025, and reports indicate a slight improvement in his condition following a chest CT scan that showed normal progression of his lung inflammation.
The tradition of Lent has deep roots, having been officially established in 601 A.D. by Pope Gregory I, who delineated the duration for the first time. Originally lasting 46 days, the observance was intended to reflect the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the desert, supplemented by six feast days. The Catholic Church defines Lent as a time for believers to engage in penance and reflection.
“Penance expresses sorrow and contrition for our wrongdoing, indicating our intention to turn away from sin and turn back to God,” the Catholic Church shared on its official website.
This year’s Lent will conclude on Holy Thursday, April 17, marking an essential period for Christians as they prepare for Easter Sunday, when they commemorate Jesus Christ’s resurrection.
Observance of Ash Wednesday includes the application of ashes to worshipers’ foreheads in the shape of a cross. This act symbolizes acceptance of mortality and the need for repentance. Traditionally, the ashes used are collected from burnt palm branches, typically from the previous year’s Palm Sunday.
During Lent, many Christians abstain from eating meat, particularly on Ash Wednesday, Good Friday, and each Friday throughout the season. According to Catholic doctrine, abstaining from flesh meat—a category that includes beef, pork, chicken, and turkey—honors Jesus’ sacrifice on Good Friday. Fish and some non-flesh products, such as milk and eggs, remain permissible.
“Lent is an incredible time of year for Christians to engage more deeply in prayer, fasting, and giving,” said Alex Jones, CEO of Hallow, a popular prayer and meditation app. “We see it as a huge opportunity for folks to re-engage with their faith.”
In addition to abstaining from certain foods, Lent encourages individuals to practice self-discipline by giving up personal luxuries. Suggestions vary widely, from declining social media to minimizing background noise in daily life. Participating in acts of charity is also emphasized throughout this period.
Despite its rich history, the way Lent is celebrated might differ among denominations. While many Catholic, Episcopal, and Lutheran congregations observe it, many Baptist and non-denominational groups do not adhere to the practices of Lent.
With the emphasis on self-denial and charitable giving, Lent serves as a vital reminder for Christians to focus on spiritual growth as they prepare for the resurrection of Jesus, a cornerstone belief of Christianity.
