General

Christians around the world are getting ready for Lent, a time of prayer, fasting, and helping others, as the 40-day period of reflection begins. This marks the start of Lent in the Christian calendar and is recognized by Catholics, Anglicans, and several other main Christian groups globally. Ash Wednesday, which falls 46 days before Easter Sunday this year, kicks off this 40-day period of fasting and prayer, not counting Sundays. Pope Leo XIV highlighted in his 2026 Lenten message that the old tradition of fasting during Lent can help us break free from indifference and encourage us to “hunger” for God. Before Ash Wednesday, which signals the beginning of Lent, the pope urged everyone to take part in the “ancient ascetic practice” of giving up certain foods and to avoid saying hurtful words. He emphasized that Lent is a time to put the mystery of God at the center of our lives to renew our faith and keep our hearts from being overwhelmed by daily worries and distractions. The pope noted, “Fasting is an ancient ascetic practice that is key to conversion.” He explained that because it involves our bodies, fasting helps us recognize what we truly “hunger” for and what is necessary for our well-being. Furthermore, he said that fasting helps us understand our “appetites” better, keeping our desire for justice alive and helping us avoid complacency.