Lent

Lent derives from two sources: the fast preceding the Pascha (an early commemoration of both the Passion and the Resurrection), and a period of preparation for candidates for baptism.

The fast originally lasted one day but was eventually extended to six. It became the model for Holy Week observances which were separated according to the events of Jesus' last week. The preparation period became the rest of the Lenten season.

Some people continue the tradition of Lenten fasting today. Others encourage people to 'take on' something extra during the Lenten season as preparation for the Easter observances.

Lent is characterised as a time of personal reflection and repentance and to this end many churches hold Lent Groups and study classes.

The liturgical colour for Lent is purple.

Ash Wednesday

Lent begins on Ash Wednesday and ends on Easter Eve.

The name "Ash Wednesday" comes from the practice of making the sign of the cross in ashes on the foreheads of the congregation during the Eucharist of the day. The ash is seen as a sign of penitence and derives from the ancient custom of wearing sackcloth and ashes during a period of sadness and mourning.

The ash itself, is made by burning palm crosses from the previous year's Palm Sunday procession.

Lent includes Holy Week, the last week of the season. The six Sundays during Lent are exempted, which means that Lent is observed for a total of forty days. This number reminds Christians of the forty days during which Jesus was tempted in the wilderness following His baptism by John in the River Jordan.

Palm Sunday

The last Sunday of Lent is Palm Sunday, when Christ's triumphal entry into Jerusalem is commemorated.

Churches may be decorated with palm branches and the congregation carry palm crosses with them into the service as a reminder of the palm branches that were strewn before Jesus as he rode into the city.

Palm Sunday at St Giles is marked by a procession which begins in St Giles Centre and makes its way to the church.

Palm Sunday also marks the beginning of Holy Week. This is the time that we meditate on the events of Jesus' last week before His crucifixion.

Maundy Thursday

Thursday of Holy Week is called Maundy Thursday. "Maundy" probably comes from the Latin word "mandatum," which means "commandment." The reference is to Jesus' command to love one another, and that his disciples wash one anothers feet.

Maundy Thursday is also a commemoration of the Last Supper, the Passover meal Jesus celebrated with His disciples on the night he was betrayed. At St Giles it is celebrated with foot washing and a celebration of the Eucharist.

White vestments are worn during the service which ends abruptly with the stripping of the altars and watch at the garden of repose.

Good Friday

Friday of Holy Week is called Good Friday ("Good Friday" is probably a variant of "God's Friday," the same way we say "goodbye" today instead of "God be with you"). Good Friday is an observance of Jesus' crucifixion. It is a sombre day of reflection and repentance. A solemn liturgy takes place at S Giles’ where we ponder the pain and suffering our Lord freely accept to take our many sins upon himself.

Holy Saturday

Saturday of Holy Week is called Holy Saturday, and not Easter Saturday as many non church goers seem to think. Holy Saturday is characterised by watchfulness and preparation and commemorates the resting of Jesus' body in the tomb. The Easter Vigil is celebrated during the evening of Holy Saturday and marks the moment of Jesus' Resurrection from the dead. The service consists of lighting the new fire and marking the new Pascal Candle which is then carried in procession through the darkened church. The Light of Christ is joyfully proclaimed to all and the Exultet, the Easter Song of Praise is sung. The church then bursts into light as the Gloria is sung and the church bells rung. The congregation also take time to renew their Baptism Vows and the baptismal water is blessed.

Page last updated 04.02.06 © St Giles Aintree 2005 - 2006