Lent 2021 Facts: Abstinence Rules And How To Start Penance On Ash Wednesday

Lent begins on Wednesday. The day, also known as Ash Wednesday, marks the start of the 40 days of fasting when practicing Christians are expected to "give something up."

The tradition of penance began as a commemoration of Jesus' sacrifice during his time in the Judean desert. According to Father William Saunders of the Catholic Education Resource Center, "the number 40 has always had special spiritual significance regarding preparation ... most importantly, Jesus fasted and prayed for 40 days and 40 nights in the desert before He began His public ministry (Matthew 4:2)."

Lent ends three days before Easter Sunday on April 1. The date changes every year as Lent always starts exactly 46 days before Easter Sunday.

Generally, people participating in Lent fasting abstain from eating meat on Fridays.

According to the Code of Canon Law, a guide created by the Vatican, people who are 18-59 years are required to fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. Catholics aged 14 and older should abstain from meat on Ash Wednesdays and all the Fridays during Lent, especially Good Friday. This includes dairy products, including eggs. Condiments made from animal fat are not considered meat products for Lenten fasting purposes. During Lent fasting, people are usually expected to give up some vices like alcohol or smoking.

Lent is not always about giving up something. People can do some good deeds to mark this time. Alternatively, people can choose to attend church and promise to pray throughout Lent.