Saint Anthony of Padua R.C. Church

Beautiful Rocky Point, NY

Love one another as I have loved you.

Lent  101

The Meaning of Lent

The annual observance of Lent is the special season for the ascent to the holy mountain of Easter.

Through its twofold theme of repentance and Baptism, the season of Lent disposes both the catechumens and the faithful to celebrate the Paschal Mystery. Catechumens are led to the sacraments of initiation by means of the rite of election, the scrutinies, and catechesis. The faithful, listening more intently to the word of God and devoting themselves to prayer, are prepared through a spirit of repentance to renew their Baptismal promises.

- Ceremonial of Bishops, 249

ABSTINENCE AND FASTING

All Catholics who have reached their 14th year are bound to abstain entirely from meat on Ash Wednesday and on the Fridays of Lent. All Catholics between the ages of 18 and 59 inclusive are also bound to observe the laws of fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. This means limiting oneself to a single full meal and avoiding food between meals. Two other light meals, which together do not equal a full meal, may be taken during the day.

A Prayer for Lent 2012

Jesus Christ, Lord and Redeemer, we who have been baptized into your death hope to be raised to new life in you. Send your Holy Spirit upon us this Lent so that we might have the courage to take up our cross each day, to fulfill our duties with great love and to hope always in your word. May this sacred season strengthen us to live as men and women dead to sin and alive in you. Help us to grow in faith so that we might be witnesses of your love to the world. Amen.

A Lenten Blessing

"Merciful God, you called us forth from the dust of the earth;

you claimed us for Christ in the waters of baptism. Look upon us as we enter these Forty Days bearing the mark of ashes, and bless our journey through the desert of Lent to the font of rebirth. May our fasting be hunger for justice; our alms, a making of peace; our prayer, the chant of humble and grateful hearts. All that we do and pray is in the name of Jesus. For in his cross you proclaim your love for ever and ever."

- CATHOLIC HOUSEHOLD BLESSINGS AND PRAYERS

The Season of Lent

The Season of Lent invites us to both dread and delight. The psalms we pray each day of this holy season express both emotions and the whole range in between.

As we follow Lent's cycle of readings, may we be paschal mystery. And may we find our dread and drudgery transformed to delight.

"The Cross, with which the ashes are traced upon us, is a sign of Christ's victory over death."

Thomas Merton

Lent 2012 - Rediscover Lent Day by Day!

Lord, have mercy!