St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church

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
During Lent, we are asked to devote ourselves to seeking the Lord in prayer and reading Scripture, to sacrifice self-control through fasting & abstinence, and to share our blessings with others by giving alms.

Fasting is to be observed by all 18 years of age and older, who have not yet celebrated their 59th birthday. On a fast day one full meal is allowed. Two other meals, sufficient to maintain strength, may be taken according to each one’s needs, but together they should not equal another full meal. Eating between meals is not permitted, but liquids, including milk and juices, are allowed.
Abstinence is observed by all 14 years of age and older. On days of abstinence (Ash Wednesday, all Fridays of Lent, and Good Friday) no meat is allowed. Note that when health or ability to work would be seriously affected, the law does not oblige. When in doubt concerning fast and abstinence, the parish priest should be consulted.

The Giving of Alms

The giving of alms is one way to share God’s gifts not only
through the distribution of money, but through the sharing
of our time and talents. St. John Chrysostom reminds us:
“Not to enable the poor to share in our goods is to steal
from them and deprive them of life.  The goods we possess are
not ours, but theirs.”   (CCC 2446)