Easter 2023: When Lent ends, why is Lent celebrated and can you break Lent on Sundays?

Every year, many people give up one of their guilty pleasures such as chocolate, alcohol or junk food in the name of Lent. The 40 days of fasting is usually practised by those of the Christian faith in the lead-up to Easter celebrations.

Lent is known as a time of repentance, fasting, and preparation for Easter. And although Lent lasts for 40 days, it does not include Sundays.

The 40-day period is a time for Christians to reflect on when Jesus fasted and suffered in the desert for 40 days and 40 nights. According to the Bible, Jesus was tempted by Satan during this time but he did not give in.

Christians participate in Lent in a bid to grow closer to God before Easter. Shrove Tuesday, which is also known as Pancake Day, takes place the day before Lent begins.

The day symbolises when Christians would eat up rich foods such as eggs and milk before fasting. This year, Lent began on February 22, which is also known as Ash Wednesday.

Here’s everything you need to know:

What is Lent

For those who practise the Christian faith, Lent is a time of repentance, fasting, and preparation for Easter. Christians participate in Lent in a bid to grow closer to God before Easter and use it as a way to reflect on when Jesus fasted and suffered in the desert for 40 days and 40 nights.