It’s quite normal to hear people talk about what they’re “giving up for Lent” every year, but lots of the details about Lent itself aren’t talked about as much or are less familiar to most people. If you didn’t grow up with a religious background that observes Lent (or even if you did!), you might have some questions about this yearly tradition. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with all you need to know about this time of getting ready for the Easter Season, one of the most awaited holidays in the country. We’re here to answer all your questions about Lent 2024, like “When does Lent start in 2024?”
During the Lenten season, the entire Catholic Church and many Christians engage in spiritual exercises such as prayer, fasting from eating meat, and self reflection, as they prepare for Easter Sunday, the culmination of Holy Week.
What is Lenten Season?
Different groups of Christians, like Roman Catholics, Lutherans, Anglicans, and others, usually observe Lent. The word “Lent” comes from an old English word “lencten,” which means “spring.” Even though Lent starts during the winter on “Ash Wednesday”, it goes on into the springtime, ending on Easter Sunday weekend.
You might be wondering why “Ash Wednesday” and “giving things up” don’t sound very cheerful. Well, while Lent has serious parts to it, it’s also about hope, faith, and trying to focus more on God and less on ourselves. We’ll explain more about these ideas soon, but first, let’s talk about when Lent starts and finishes this year, in 2024!
Holy Week 2024 is the week leading up to Easter. The week begins on Palm Sunday (which is Sunday, March 24, 2024), it consists of other significant days such as Maundy/Holy Thursday and Good Friday, and ends on Holy Saturday, which is Saturday, March 30, 2024.
When is Lent in 2024?
Lent 2024 spans six weeks leading up to Easter. It kicks off on Ash Wednesday (February 14, 2024) and wraps up either on Maundy Thursday (March 28, 2024) or Black Saturday (March 30, 2024), depending on the church’s tradition.
How long does Lent last?
Lent begins 46 days before Easter weekend (Easter Sunday falls on March 31, 2024), but only observed from Holy Monday, Holy Tuesday, Holy Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, and Good Friday to Holy Saturday each week, excluding Sundays. This is because Sundays are considered a time of celebration.
During Holy Week 2024, Christians around the world will commemorate the life of Jesus Christ on earth in its last week, leading up to Easter Sunday.
When does Lent begin in 2024?
Lent starts on “Ash Wednesday,” which falls on February 14, 2024.
What is Ash Wednesday?
Ash Wednesday is a solemn day for thinking and asking for forgiveness for our wrongdoings. You might notice some people with black marks on their foreheads on this day. That’s because some Catholics and other Christians who follow this tradition mark their foreheads with ashes in the shape of a cross. It’s a way of openly showing that they’re sorry for their sins.
When does Lent finish in 2024?
Since 1969, Catholics don’t mark Lent on “Maundy Thursday” or “Holy Thursday” anymore. That means Lent will wrap up on Thursday, March 28, 2024. But traditionally, Lent ended during “Holy Week,” on “Holy Saturday,” which falls on Saturday, March 30, 2024.
When is Holy Week?
Holy Week is the week right before Easter. It starts on Palm Sunday (March 24, 2024), includes important days like Holy Thursday and Good Friday, and ends on Holy Saturday (March 30, 2024).
What is Palm Sunday?
Palm Sunday, also called Passion Sunday, marks the day when Jesus entered Jerusalem, riding on a donkey. This event was highly anticipated for centuries, with prophecies like, “Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey,” (Zechariah 9:9) written long before Jesus was born. The name “Palm” comes from the palm branches spread on the road as people welcomed Jesus into Jerusalem.
What is Maundy or Holy Thursday?
Maundy Thursday, also known as Holy Thursday, remembers Jesus’ Last Supper with his disciples. This falls on March 28, 2024, commemorating the institution of the Holy Eucharist, where Jesus shared consecrated hosts (bread) and wine with his disciples, symbolizing his body and blood.
What is Good Friday?
Good Friday, happening on Friday, March 29, 2024, marks the day when Jesus was crucified. At first glance, calling it “good” might seem odd, given the sad event it represents. But as Pope Francis mentioned in his 2019 Lenten message, this period before Easter is about welcoming Christ’s triumph over sin and death into our lives.
What is Black Saturday?
Black Saturday, occurring on Saturday, March 30, 2024, remembers the day when Jesus’ body was laid in the tomb.
How to Observe Lent Based on Christian Tradition
Lent is a time for preparing our hearts to remember Jesus’ suffering and celebrate His resurrection, as explained by the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship. Though it’s a solemn period, it’s also one filled with hope and prayer before we acknowledge and rejoice in Jesus’ death and resurrection on Easter.
As Pope Francis emphasizes, Lent is about letting go of anything that we prioritize above God and recognizing our need for His mercy instead of relying solely on ourselves. The Calvin Institute of Christian Worship adds that Lent is a time for self-reflection, spiritual growth, and renewing our faith.
In particular, some Catholics choose to fast from meat on Fridays during Lent (including Ash Wednesday), and some abstain from meat on Fridays throughout the year. The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops explained in 1966 that since Jesus suffered on a Friday, they set aside this day for abstinence. They also noted that abstaining from meat is an outward sign of inward spiritual values.
During Lent, the focus isn’t solely on giving something up but on recognizing the immense sacrifice Jesus made for humanity, offering salvation and transforming lives. Any practice or discipline that helps individuals become more aware of God’s sovereignty and their need for Him in daily life is encouraged as part of Lenten observance.
Are these Days Considered as Holidays?
In the Philippines, Holy Thursday to Easter Sunday holds special significance as these days are widely observed as regular holidays. This period marks the culmination of the Lenten season in the Christian calendar.
During this long weekend, many Filipinos participate in church services, particularly on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday. These services often include rituals such as the washing of the feet to symbolize humility and the veneration of the stations of the cross. Additionally, the Blessed Sacrament is prominently featured during these days, with faithful attending Masses and Holy Hours to reflect on the sacrifice of Jesus.
As Easter Sunday approaches, anticipation builds for the celebration of Christ’s resurrection. The Easter Vigil, held on Holy Saturday evening, marks the beginning of Easter festivities. This solemn and joyful ceremony includes the blessing of the Easter fire, the lighting of the Paschal candle, and the proclamation of the Resurrection. It is a time of great rejoicing for Christians around the world.
Where to Go for Holy Week 2024
1.Pampanga
Pampanga is famous for its Holy Week traditions, including the real-life crucifixion reenactments known as “mandarame.” Locals carry heavy crosses and some are nailed to them, while others walk barefoot and whip themselves with bamboo sticks. For food enthusiasts, Pampanga offers a culinary journey with dishes like sisig and murcon. Tourists can also explore attractions like Mount Arayat and Miyamit Falls.
2.Laguna
Laguna is a compelling destination for Lenten observance, offering religious sites like the Pagsanjan Church and Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe, where visitors can join solemn processions and reenactments. The province’s tranquil ambiance and scenic landscapes provide a serene backdrop for reflection, while its culinary offerings feature traditional Lenten dishes like pancit habhab and espasol. With its blend of spirituality, natural beauty, and gastronomic delights, Laguna offers a meaningful Lenten retreat for travelers.
3.Cavite
Cavite is a popular Lenten destination, offering significant religious sites like Our Lady of Solitude Church and San Roque Parish Church. Visitors can also explore tranquil spots like Tagaytay City and historic sites such as the Aguinaldo Shrine. With its blend of religious heritage, natural beauty, and gastronomic offerings, Cavite provides a meaningful Lenten experience for travelers.
4.Bulacan
Bulacan is renowned for its stunning churches, making it an ideal destination for Visita Iglesia during Lent. The historic Barasoain Church, also known as Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish, holds significant importance as the site of the first Philippine Congress in 1898 and the inauguration of the First Philippine Republic in 1899.
Another notable church in Bulacan is the Malolos Cathedral, formerly the presidential palace of Emilio Aguinaldo. Devotees will also find solace at the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes in San Jose del Monte, a heartfelt tribute to the Rosary Basilica in the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes in France.
5.Rizal
For a nature-filled Holy Week, hike in Rizal province, Philippines. Beginner-friendly trails include Masungi Georeserve, Mount Sipit Ulang, Mount Nagpatong, Mount Kulis, and Mount Daraitan. Explore Antipolo Cathedral, Tinipak River, and Pinto Art Museum for spiritual and scenic experiences. Don’t miss dining at Antipolo’s restaurants with stunning views. Rizal offers diverse attractions for a memorable Lenten retreat.
As you plan for upcoming holidays with long weekends like the Holy Week, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Souls Day, Saints Day, and National Heroes Day, consider the practicality of a staycation in recommended destinations such as Cavite, Laguna, and Pampanga. These places offer rich cultural experiences and opportunities for spiritual reflection amidst serene landscapes. Alternatively, investing in a condominium unit with Asterra provides a lasting solution for practical living. With thoughtfully designed spaces, tranquil landscapes and pools and open greens, Asterra’s vertical homes offer the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Whether it’s exploring historic churches or enjoying the comforts of home, we ensure that every moment is well-spent, making it the ideal choice for those seeking a personal sanctuary or starter home in emerging locations nationwide.
If you are considering practical solutions that offer the best value for money, Asterra’s value-priced condominiums present a practical investment for both first home and seasoned buyers alike. With compact spaces within growing cityscape, such as Cavite, Laguna, and Pampanga, Asterra’s condominiums provide an ideal blend of comfort and quality.
