Church Year
What Is Lent?
Lent is the 40-day season of fasting, prayer and preparation that leads to Easter — one of the most important seasons in the Christian calendar.
Quick answer
Church Near Me explains Lent — the forty-day season of fasting, prayer and giving that runs from Ash Wednesday to Easter. Churches mark it with special services, study groups and acts of charity; this guide covers what to expect and how to take part.
What Is Lent?
Lent is a season of 40 days — not counting Sundays — of fasting, repentance, prayer and self-examination observed by Christians in the weeks before Easter. The number 40 reflects the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the wilderness. Lent begins on Ash Wednesday and ends on Holy Saturday, the day before Easter Sunday.
Lent Dates
| Year | Ash Wednesday | Good Friday | Easter Sunday |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2027 | 10 February | 26 March | 28 March |
| 2028 | 1 March | 14 April | 16 April |
| 2029 | 14 February | 30 March | 1 April |
Lenten Practices
Fasting
Abstaining from meat on Fridays, reducing food intake, or giving up a particular food or drink for the 40 days.
Prayer
Many Christians increase their prayer life during Lent — daily Bible reading, devotional books, prayer courses.
Almsgiving
Lent has historically been a season of increased charitable giving, reflecting solidarity with the poor.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Lent start in 2027?
Lent 2027 begins on Ash Wednesday, 10 February 2027. Lent always begins 46 days before Easter Sunday.
How long does Lent last?
Lent lasts 40 days, not counting Sundays. Including Sundays, the season runs for 46 days — from Ash Wednesday through to Holy Saturday.
What is Ash Wednesday?
Ash Wednesday is the first day of Lent, observed in Catholic, Anglican, Methodist and many other churches. The minister makes the sign of the cross on the foreheads of worshippers using ash, saying 'Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.'
What should I give up for Lent?
Traditionally, Christians give up something they enjoy — food, social media, alcohol — as a form of fasting that focuses the mind on prayer and reflection. Many Christians also take something on for Lent: a daily reading or charitable practice.
What is Shrove Tuesday?
Shrove Tuesday (Pancake Day) is the day before Ash Wednesday. Historically, Christians used up rich foods before the Lenten fast. The word 'shrove' comes from 'shrive,' meaning to confess sins.