Ash Wednesday begins the season of Lent, a time of sacrifice and repentance as we strive to turn our hearts to Jesus.  The ashes we receive at church remind us of our mortality and the need to repent of our sins.  The shape of the cross reminds us that we have a savior in Jesus Christ.

     Traditionally, there are three pillars of Lent to help us in our journey closer to the Lord: prayer, fasting, and almsgiving.

     While you're having dinner as a family, take some time to discuss what you are all giving up for Lent. Keep the three pillars of Lent in mind.  How can you practice prayer, fasting, and almsgiving this Lent?

     Make sure to write down what you're giving up and place it in an easy-to-see spot, such as the refrigerator or dinner table.

• Go to Mass every Sunday, and really enter into the Mass.
• Go to more than one Mass a week. Daily Masses are celebrated and a great way to start of end your day.
• Say grace at every meal.
• Offer up additional daily prayers.

• Follow the Church's practice of fasting from meat on Fridays.
• Find something to give up or add to your routine as a small sacrifice to help grow in holiness.
• Find other things to fast from, tv, internet, media?

Lenten Recipes (CRS)
Fast & Abstinence (USCCB)
Recetas de Cuaresma (CRS)Ayuno y Abstinencia Cuaresmal (USCCB)

• Be generous in sharing your gifts with others this Lenten season.
• Be bold but not reckless. What can you give to others in need?