Lent and Easter

Lent is the 40-day season of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving that began on Ash Wednesday. It lasts for six and a half weeks (Sundays are not counted as part of the 40 days). Lent is ultimately a period of preparation for the Lord’s Resurrection at Easter.

Easter celebrates the resurrection of Jesus after his death by crucifixion. It occurs on the first Sunday following the first full moon of spring in the northern hemisphere. Unlike Christmas, which is always on the same date each year, Easter moves with the lunar calendar and has done so since the Council of Nicaea in 325. Therefore, in 2023, Easter will take place on April 9. The Easter Season itself lasts for 50 days following Easter Sunday, ending on the feast of Pentecost. This year it will end on May 28.

The two seasons intentionally contrast each other. Lent is a time for quiet reflection and preparation whereas Easter is a hope filled season of celebration. The College community will remember the events of the last days of Jesus’ life through a Holy Week Prayer Assembly this Thursday.

“Jesus’ hope is different. He plants in our hearts the conviction that God is able to make everything work unto good, because even from the grave He brings life.” Pope Francis, Easter Vigil Homily, 2020

Mrs Sandra Freeman
Assistant Principal - Mission
Sandra_Freeman@shalomcollege.com