The three pillars of Lent

Lent comes around yearly, but have you ever stopped to ask what it means and why it matters?

We are taking this opportunity to discuss the three pillars of Lent—prayer, fasting, and almsgiving—and highlight the How to Lent  series from Formed.org. Through Scripture, each episode explores these disciplines, helping you approach Lent with greater intention and purpose.

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1. Prayer: A Heart-to-Heart with God
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Prayer is the first pillar of Lent, emphasizing the deepening of one's relationship with God. Lent is a season of return—a time to draw closer to God, not just in routine but in relationship. Pray with Scripture, attend Mass, even daily Mass, walk the Way of the Cross. Let your prayer lead to a heart reshaped, softened, and set ablaze with love. 

​Prayer during Lent should lead to conversion of heart and a renewed commitment to following Christ. #PersonalRenewal​

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This episode of How to Lent: Prayer explores the Church's teaching on prayer through Scripture, offering practical guidance and tips for praying during Lent. More than just a Lenten practice, prayer is the foundation of the season.

Watch now at formed.org

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2. Fasting: More than going hungry
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Fasting is the second pillar, focusing on self-discipline and abstinence. Catholics aged 18 to 59 are obliged to fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, which means limiting themselves to one full meal and two smaller meals that together do not equal a full meal. Additionally, Catholics 14 years and older are required to abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. Consider to take Fridays as day of abstinence, at least during Lent. (In Canada, Fridays are days of abstinence, but Catholics can substitute special acts of charity or piety on this day. Source: CCCB)

True fasting leads to freedom—the kind that makes space for God to work.

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Why do we fast during Lent? More than a Catholic diet, fasting deepens our spiritual lives. This How to Lent: Fasting episode uncovers its true purpose and meaning.

Watch now at formed.org

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3. Almsgiving: Love in Action
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Almsgiving is the third pillar, emphasizing charity and concern for others. It is described as a witness to fraternal charity and a work of justice pleasing to God. Lent calls us to move beyond token gestures and into radical generosity.

This practice encourages Catholics to share their resources with those in need, reflecting God's generosity. Almsgiving can take various forms, including donating money to charitable causes, volunteering time to serve others, or performing acts of kindness. 

Give in a way that costs you. Step into someone’s suffering, not just from a distance, but up close. Offer your time, your presence, your heart. ​

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Almsgiving goes beyond giving money—it's a deeply rooted Christian practice. Scripture highlights its benefits, but what does it mean today? In this How to Lent: Almsgiving episode, we explore how almsgiving deepens trust in God and love for our neighbour. Lent, a season of renewal, is the perfect time to begin.

Watch now at formed.org