Many local ministers from area churches will begin the Lenten season this Wednesday with a message of sacrifice and salvation.  Abstaining from a vice or favorite food is a way many Christians mark the Lenten season, which begins with Ash Wednesday. According to recent statistics, the most common things people give up for Lent include sweets or desserts (24%), soda (20%), fast food or dining out (20%), and alcohol (17%).  Sixty-one percent of Roman Catholics are likely to observe Lent.  One requirement for Catholics age 14 and older is to abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday and all Fridays during Lent to commemorate Jesus Christ’s sacrifice on Good Friday.  Fr. Matthew Rappl, pastor of St. Joseph's and St. Peter & Paul parishes in Sturgeon Bay, says lent is a beautiful preparation for the later celebration of the mysteries of the faith.

Local churches will mark the beginning of Lent with Ash Wednesday services throughout the day Wednesday, March 5th.   The 40-day season ends on Easter Sunday, which will take place on April 20 this year.   

Photo credit:  Brian May, U.S. Navy. License: public domain.