Lent Season

 

Filipinos have grown accustomed to 40 days of commemorating Jesus Christ's crucifixion and preparing for His resurrection every year. Lent, in the Catholic church's traditions, is one of the many feasts with vivid ceremonies and profound traditions.

In preparation for Easter Sunday, Roman Catholics and some Protestant groups observe Lent, a period of fasting and penance. Lent was created as a forty-day period in the fourth century. Lent, on the other hand, has devolved into a simple sacrament or habit over the years. Many Roman Catholics believe that giving up something during Lent will bring them closer to God.

Fasting is a period of spiritual cleansing and focus on the religious aspect of life. This is especially true during Lent, which lasts the longest and comes before Easter, the primary Orthodox celebration. Fasting entails self-control in all aspects of life, including diet. Certain dietary prohibitions are linked to other fasting needs. Excludes animal-derived items, as well as alcohol, as products that promote gluttony. Lean cuisine should ideally be as simple as possible; Orthodox Christians should not spend too much time preparing lunch or dinner.

During the Great Lent, meat and its derivatives, as well as eggs and milk, are prohibited. Fish eating is traditionally restricted while fasting. It is only permitted for two days: the Announcement and the Palad ng Palma. Vegetable oil is not included in animal food, but it is limited, according to reports on Orthodox websites. This oil can be prepared on weekends and on particular days in March, when there are days dedicated to the veneration of the most prominent saints. Lent is said to begin on the first day of total fasting. On Good Friday, do not consume anything before nightfall.

These Catholic traditions provide color and life to the celebration of Jesus Christ's final days, from his death on the Cross to his resurrection. The cultural characteristics and ingenuity of the Filipinos are represented in these customs. We Filipinos may recognize interconnectedness and unity in these traditions. It's also a time of solidarity and family reunion, as many people return to their hometowns during Lent to mark Holy Week.

Reference: https://www.cru.org/us/en/train-and-grow/life-and-relationships/holidays/lent/what-is-lent-about-and-why-is-it-important.html