Lenten Rules

Lent is a time for Christians to pray, to give to the needy and to strengthen self discipline.Stockbyte/Stockbyte/Getty Images

Lent covers a period of six weeks beginning on Ash Wednesday and gives Catholics and some Protestants a chance to participate and prepare for Easter and the Resurrection. This is a time to focus on the relationship between a Christian and God, an examination of the relationships with others and community. A particular set of rules comes into effect at this time. These rules follow three disciplines; fasting, alms to the unfortunate and prayer.

Fasting and Abstinence

Lent stipulates that all Catholics from 18 to 59 should fast on both Ash Wednesday and on Good Friday. Fairly strict guidelines are set about what is allowed and not allowed. On Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, one meal is allowed or two smaller portions that would not be equal to or greater than a full meal. Drinking liquids on these two days is allowed but no in-between meal foods and snacks. Abstinence for Catholics means no meat for Ash Wednesday and every Friday during Lent. Some Catholics choose to abstain from meat on all Fridays. This does not apply to children under 14 years of age. Health concerns can cause a Catholic to discount this rule. The Church suggests abstaining from other over-indulgences in the lives of Catholics, such as smoking, video games or sweets.

Catholics are required to go out into the community to help the needy, giving alms to the sick and suffering, poor, old or in another way disadvantaged. Donations to charities and good works are considered imperative during the season of Lent. Churches often collect for various organizations, shelters and charities during Lent as well as the regular collection. Clothing and other necessities go to those in need in the community. Selfless giving for Christians brings them closer to Jesus Christ. Denying the self, giving of the self and serving others all contribute to the spirit of Lent.

During Lent, Christians pray with family and individually, spending more time devoted to prayer, the Rosary and studying their church denominations Catechism. Reading the bible is encouraged and Christian leadership asks their flocks to pray for increased interest in those choosing to follow religious vocations. Many churches perform extra masses or church services to accommodate Lenten prayer. Catholics go to confession and, if necessary, do penance and repent. Stations of the Cross services are often held on Fridays, symbolizing the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. The rules of Lent are supposed to help give Christians a sense of spiritual discipline.