A Romantic Catholic person on X asked why it is that people are opposed to the idea of Lent. My short answer is that it is a heathen unbiblical tradition. Getting good and firm information about it online, though, is not always a straightforward task:

Introduction

Lent is a significant period in the liturgical calendar of the Roman Catholic Church, marked by repentance, fasting, and spiritual renewal. It lasts for forty days, beginning on Ash Wednesday and concluding on Holy Saturday, the day before Easter Sunday. This period is observed by millions of Catholics and some other Christian denominations worldwide as a time of reflection and preparation for the celebration of Christ’s resurrection. However, while Lent holds deep religious and spiritual meaning for many, it is also a subject of controversy and opposition, with some individuals and groups questioning its biblical basis, its perceived legalism, and its effectiveness in fostering true spiritual growth.

Origins of Lent

The origins of Lent can be traced to the early centuries of Christianity. Historical records suggest that as early as the second century, “Christians” engaged in preparatory fasting before Passover. However, the structured forty-day Lenten observance became more established by the fourth century, following the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD, which formalized various aspects of Hellenistic nonbiblical Christian doctrine and practice. The forty-day duration of Lent is symbolic, reflecting the forty days Jesus Christ spent fasting in the wilderness while being tempted by Satan (Matthew 4:1-11, Mark 1:12-13, Luke 4:1-13). Additionally, the number forty carries significant biblical connotations, as seen in the forty years of Israel’s wandering in the desert and the forty days Moses spent on Mount Sinai.

As the practice of Lent evolved, it incorporated specific disciplines, including fasting, abstinence, prayer, and almsgiving. The medieval Church imposed strict fasting rules, with limitations on the types and quantities of food that could be consumed. Over time, these regulations have been relaxed, particularly after the reforms of the Second Vatican Council in the 1960s, which sought to make Lenten observance more spiritually meaningful and less burdensome.

Significance of Lent in Catholicism

Lent is a period of penitence and self-examination, intended to bring believers closer to God by encouraging them to repent of their sins and renew their commitment to Christian living. The key practices of Lent include:

1. Fasting and Abstinence: Catholics aged 18 to 59 are required to fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, meaning they consume only one full meal and two smaller meals without eating between them. Additionally, Catholics aged 14 and older abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday and all Fridays of Lent.
2. Prayer: Increased prayer life during Lent is encouraged, with particular emphasis on attending Mass, reciting the Rosary, and engaging in other forms of devotion such as the Stations of the Cross.
3. Almsgiving: Lent is also a time of charity, where Catholics are encouraged to give to the less fortunate, reflecting Christ’s call to love and serve others.
4. Sacraments: Many Catholics use Lent as an opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) to seek forgiveness and spiritual renewal.

The culmination of Lent occurs during Holy Week, which commemorates the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This week includes Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and finally, the Easter Vigil, which celebrates the resurrection.

Opposition to Lent

Despite its deep historical and spiritual significance, Lent is not universally accepted within Christianity, and some individuals and groups criticize it for various reasons:

1. Lack of Explicit Biblical Command: Some Protestant denominations and other critics argue that Lent is a man-made tradition rather than a biblically mandated observance. Unlike practices such as baptism and communion, which have explicit scriptural foundations, Lent is seen as an ecclesiastical development rather than a divine ordinance.
2. Legalism and Ritualism: Some opponents of Lent view it as an unnecessary or legalistic burden imposed by the Church. They argue that fasting and other Lenten disciplines can become mere ritualistic observances rather than genuine acts of faith, leading people to follow religious customs mechanically without true spiritual transformation.
3. Rejection of Catholic Tradition: Certain evangelical and fundamentalist Christian groups reject Lent because they see it as part of Catholic tradition rather than an essential Christian practice. Many Protestant reformers, including Martin Luther and John Calvin, were critical of what they perceived as excessive Catholic rituals and sought to remove practices they deemed unbiblical.
4. Cultural and Secularization Issues: In contemporary society, some critics argue that Lent has been commercialized or watered down to a cultural observance rather than a meaningful religious practice. Some individuals participate in Lenten fasts (such as giving up sweets or social media) without engaging in deeper spiritual reflection, which leads critics to question whether the observance retains its intended purpose.

Conclusion

Lent remains a vital aspect of Roman Catholic spirituality, serving as a time for repentance, self-discipline, and preparation for Easter. Its roots in early Christianity, its biblical symbolism, and its emphasis on personal and communal renewal make it a significant observance for millions of believers. However, opposition to Lent persists among those who see it as a non-biblical tradition, a legalistic practice, or an outdated ritual. Ultimately, whether one observes Lent depends on individual belief and interpretation of Christian doctrine. For Catholics and others who embrace it, Lent offers an opportunity to grow spiritually and deepen their faith in preparation for the joy of Easter.