The word Lent comes from an old English word, “lencten”, which means “spring season”. It is a time of religious observance, covering the 40 days from Ash Wednesday to Holy Thursday (Maundy Thursday).

For Eastern Churches, the period of Lent ends on Holy Saturday, which is also Easter Vigil, the day before Easter Sunday.

Lent is celebrated by Christian religions as a period of reflection upon the suffering and death of Christ. Many Christians choose Lent as a time for spiritual discipline and to give up luxuries or make sacrifices to show their love for Christ.

Christians might fast or give up certain types of food or drink or make a Lenten observance, like a daily Bible reading, to become closer to God.

This article considers what Lent means for modern Christians, including a brief history and how to prepare for Lent.