Guildford, UK – Lent is a very special time for Catholics, where we are called to practice self-denial, fasting and alms giving in order to become closer to Jesus before His resurrection at Easter.
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Lent always begins on Ash Wednesday, which in 2026 fell on the 18th of February, meaning Lent is already well under way.
Therefore, it is the perfect time to participate and reap the spiritual benefits of Lent if you are Catholic. But even if you are from a different faith – or not from a faith at all – it’s still possible to benefit from the Lenten period.
The purpose of Lent is for us to become better people, and to start positive habits that we hope to carry on with for the rest of our lives. Obviously, for Catholics (and other Christians), this carries a huge meaning as we are aspiring to become like our God, Jesus Christ, but the differences made during Lent can improve anyone.
This is especially true for young people experiencing Lent for the first time.
“Lent can be a really inspiring time of the Liturgical year for young people,” said Ellie Brown, a youth worker at the Catholic Parish of Guildford, because it “introduces the idea of Lent being a time of change, and as they get older they can build on this.”
While children aren’t expected to give up something major, the practice can help them develop key skills – like self-control and perseverance – for the rest of their lives.
Brown explained that Lent “isn’t simply about eating less,” but that for Catholics, the “part of fasting is about sharing in Jesus’ sacrifice.”
“It can be a way to show a desire to change,” said Brown, “wanting to turn away from wrongdoing,” which applies to everyone regardless of creed.
Another key aspect of Lent is alms giving. Alms giving is a great way to build solidarity with marginalized and impoverished communities, as many people donate to charities during Lent.
Additionally, giving to charity can improve your own self-worth, as you see the profound impact your help has on people. For example, the Catholic Agency for Overseas Development, a Catholic charity, uses the donations during Lent to ensure that families in less developed countries are able to feed themselves amidst the turmoil of climate change.
I hope you can see the wide-reaching benefits Lent has, not just on yourself and your community, but globally.
And if this feels a bit too daunting, Lent ends on Maundy Thursday, which is April 2, so there’s not much time left!
Manuel Bernardo Tavares Moreira Belo Carmona is a Reporter with Youth Journalism International.
