The Three Pillars of Lent (with kids)

Lent is a time for fasting, prayer, and giving. It’s a time for us to truly reflect on our lives while living each day through Christ. There are three Pillars to guide us through Lent: Almsgiving, Fasting, and Prayer. Each of this are important pieces to help us stand strong and live through Christ each day. 

The Lenten Worksheet set focuses on each of these every Sunday

Prayer

“But when you pray, go to your private room, shut yourself in, and so pray to our Father who is in that secret place, and your Father who sees all that is done in secret will reward you.” Matthew 6: 1-18

Prayer is the act of turning to God, listening, and talking to him. To read his words and meditate with him. It’s celebrating his life and works. It is a way to grow closer to God.

Did you know that the Old Testament mentions prayer is like incense to the Lord?

Some ways you can live this pillar:

• Meditate on the Holy Scripture and stories of the Saints
• Receive the sacraments of confession and communion regularly

Fasting

“When you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites. They neglect their appearance, so that they may appear to others to be fasting.” Mathew 6, 16:18

Fasting is the practice of eating in moderation, restricting yourself to only a small amount of food that day. During lent we fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. Abstinence from meat is practiced all Fridays. Fasting does not have to be limited to food, it may include other habits or luxuries in life.

 The 3rd Sunday of Lent focuses on understanding fasting.

Some ways you can live this pillar:

• Moderation when eating and drinking
• Reducing expenses
• Abstaining from the internet, TV, and other forms of entertainment

Almsgiving: 

“Take care to guard against all greed, for though one may be rich, one’s life does not consist of possessions.”  Luke 12:15

Almsgiving is the act of loving, listening, and giving to others. This gift isn’t about money, the biggest gift we can share is Time. We talk about this in the 4th week.

Some ways you can live this pillar:

• Spend quality time with your family
• Help others who are in need
• Pray for those around you
• Be generous with charity, patience, and forgiveness

These Pillars are points of strength that help us to truly understand Lent and prepare for the celebration of Easter. Talking to our kids about these Pillars is important because it helps them navigate the importance of this season. 

These Pillars and much more are included in the worksheet set for every Sunday of the Liturgical year. To get these pillars and so much more, subscribe today!