by Shelly Fillmore

Lent is fast upon us. For Catholics, Lent is a 40-day season of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, a season to draw closer to God.

It is the season of preparation to celebrate Jesus' resurrection at Easter. During Lent, there are many ways we can seek the Lord. Reading scripture, serving, giving donations, and practicing self-control through fasting. There are many ways to do this. From daily prayer and donating to giving up some of your favourite treats, the possibilities are endless. Last year, I decided to fast from coffee. It was challenging, to say the least. On day five, when the headaches set in, I was ready to throw in the towel, but thanks to daily prayer, I was able to withstand it.

This year, while I won't be refraining from coffee, I am preparing with my family, deciding on a few things we will be planning to do to embrace the Lord's resurrection fully when Easter comes around. Here are some ideas for you and your family to consider:

Slow down and pray - Set aside 5 to 15 minutes daily for silent prayer or meditation. I love using the Hallow app for specific Lenten prayers and daily meditation.
Celebrate with the whole family - Get everyone involved, especially if you have children. Invite your kids to choose one or two ideas that they will do this Lent. You can create fun posters or pictures to help remind them each day. My family will be using a sticker chart.
Deep clean - Clean out closets and cabinets and donate gently used items.
Spread kindness - Go out of your way to bring a smile to someone's face. Buy someone a coffee, tell them how blessed you are to have them in your life, or say hi to a stranger.
Get involved - Attend our Lenten mission, March 3-5th!
Find a way to serve - Fill out the form at saintbenedict.ca/serve to tell us about your skills, experiences, and passions. Let us help you use the gifts God has given you.
Read a good book - Recommendations I will check out this Lent:
• St. Augustine's Confessions
• Mere Christianity by C. S. Lewis
• The Screwtape Letters by C. S. Lewis
• The Imitation of Christ by Thomas à Kempis
• The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen
• I Believe in Love by St. Therese of Lisieux
Reach out - Invite a family member or friend to Mass.
Unplug - Minimize screen time and spend more time being present.

Lent can be an incredible way to draw closer to faith. I invite you all to use this time to create a meaningful connection to God and slow down, even with all the distractions of a busy world.