LENT_ 10th February 2016

In 2016 Lent begins on 10th February What is Lent? Lent is a Christian Festival. In the past it was a long, strict religious fast when people gave up all rich food. The day before Lent starts is known as Shrove Tuesday. Lent is the time when Christians prepare for the greatest of the Christian festivals known as Easter, by thinking of things they have done wrong. It was a time for spring-cleaning lives, as well as homes. What happens during Lent today? The Christian church no longer imposes a strict fast. Lent is a time when some Christians try to overcome their own faults because they believe that it was man's sin which led Jesus to be crucified. Some Christians try to follow the example of Jesus in the desert by giving up luxuries and practising self-discipline. And they try to put aside more time to prayer and religious acts so that they can really let God into their lives. Bible Study Many churches hold special Lent services. In some towns the churches of different denominations join together in groups to discuss and share their Christian faith. When does Lent begin? Lent begins with Ash Wednesday and lasts for six and a half weeks. Lent is a moveable feast which means the date changes from year to year.  In 2016 Ash Wednesday is on 10 February 2009 — 25 February 2010 — 17 February 2011 — 9 March 2012 — 22 February 2013 — 13 February 2014 — 5 March  2015 — 18 February 2016 — 10 February 2017 — 01 March 2018 — 14 February 2019 — 06 March 2020 — 26 February 2021 — 17 February 2022 — 02 March  When does Lent end? When is Lent over? Lent ends at Easter when Christians remember the execution of Jesus and then celebrate his rising from death. The last week of Lent begins with Palm Sunday, which celebrates the day Jesus entered Jerusalem and the people lay down palms at his feet. The last day of Lent is Holy Saturday, the day before Easter Sunday (Easter Day) In the Roman Catholic Church, Lent officially ends at sundown on Holy Thursday (Maundy Thursday), with the beginning of the mass of the Lord's Supper.