By: Claire Daly

   Lent is a 40-day long period of fasting, prayer, and reflection that is observed by Christians every year in preparation for Easter. At MRHS, where faith is not only something discussed in classes, but also lived out in daily actions, Lent holds a special meaning for many students. As Easter approaches, Lent becomes more than just a date on the Church calendar; it becomes a shared journey within the school’s Christian community.

   Lent lasts for 40 days, symbolizing the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the desert, where he was tempted but remained faithful to God. This season calls Christians to follow his example through sacrifice, self-discipline, and deeper prayer. Easter represents the culmination of Lent, marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ. 

  A common practice during Lent is to give something up or to make an addition to one’s lifestyle in an effort for spiritual renewal. Many of the students who take part in Lent at MRHS have planned to give up certain foods, such as sweets, social media, or other comforts.

   “I am giving up coffee, social media, and judging others for Lent,” sophomore Annie Olmstead says.

   Before one gives up anything, Lent begins with Ash Wednesday, a solemn and reflective day when Christians attend church to receive ashes in the shape of a cross on their foreheads. The ashes are a reminder of human mortality and the call to repentance, often accompanied by the words, “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return,” or “Repent and believe in the Gospel.” From that day forward, the countdown to Easter begins.

   For many students at MRHS, lent is more than tradition—it is personal. It can be a time of resetting priorities, strengthening faith, or leaning on God during challenging seasons. Some students see it as a reminder of gratitude, while others value the discipline and spiritual focus it brings into their busy lives.

   “I think lent is about obedience. I just really want to show my respect to God,” junior Addison Cox says.

   Although Lent is widely observed, different Christian denominations practice it in unique ways. 

   “I am Syrian Orthodox and we tend to give up meat, while some people give up meat except fish, but it’s pretty similar to how the Catholics practice lent,” senior Nevina Abey explained. 

   Some denominations don’t fast at all. Instead, they take Lent as a time to grow closer to loved ones and as a time to reflect.

   “I don’t know about others, but for my Hispanic family, we focus more on the love part of Lent. We have more family reunions, eat together, and pray. We talk about it too,” senior Sumi Llivichuzhca Loja says.

   February 18th to April 5th is a season of preparation—a time to slow down in a fast-moving world and refocus on faith. At MRHS, it serves as a reminder that while we come from different backgrounds and denominations, many of us share the same desire to grow closer to God. Whether through giving something up, taking something on, or simply becoming more intentional in prayer; Lent invites each person into reflection and renewal. As Easter approaches, the practice of Lent reminds our school community that growth often begins with sacrifice, and that hope follows reflection.