LENT OBSERVANCE: DIFFERENCES BETWEEN EAST AND WEST
Lent is a significant period of fasting, prayer, and penitence observed by Christians around the world. However, the manner of observance varies between the Western and Eastern traditions. This article explores these differences and reflects on the spiritual significance of Lent for Christians today.
Western Observance of Lent
In the Western tradition, particularly within the Latin Rite of the Catholic Church, Lent begins on Ash Wednesday. This day marks the start of a 46-day period leading up to Easter. However, Sundays are not counted as part of the Lenten observance because each Sunday is a mini celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Therefore, when excluding the six Sundays during this period, Lent consists of 40 days of fasting, prayer, and penance.
The practices during Lent in the Western Church typically include abstaining from meat on Fridays, giving up certain luxuries or indulgences, increasing prayer and devotion, and engaging in acts of charity. The ashes received on Ash Wednesday are a symbol of repentance and a reminder of human mortality, echoing the biblical theme of returning to God with a contrite heart.
Eastern Observance of Lent
In the Eastern Orthodox and Eastern Catholic Churches, Lent is observed differently. The Great Lent in these traditions starts on Clean Monday, also known as Pure Monday, and spans a period of 50 days. This includes the Sundays, which are not exempt from the fasting period as they are in the West.
The Eastern Lenten journey begins with the Feast of Petratha, or the Eve of the Great Fast, and culminates on the 40th day, known as the 40th Friday, commemorating Jesus’ fast in the wilderness. The final ten days of this period are devoted to the passion of the Lord, leading up to the celebration of His glorious resurrection on Easter Sunday. The observance in the Eastern Church is marked by a stricter fasting regimen, often abstaining from meat, dairy, and other animal products throughout the entire period.
REFLECTION
Lenten observance, whether in the East or West, serves the same ultimate purpose: to bring the faithful closer to God through fasting, prayer, and acts of charity. This sacred time offers Christians the opportunity to reflect on their lives, repent for their sins, and seek spiritual renewal.
The Bible encourages such practices of fasting and repentance. In Joel 2:12-13, it is written:
“’Yet even now,’ says Yahweh, ‘turn to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning.’ Tear your heart, and not your garments, and turn to Yahweh, your God; for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abundant in loving kindness, and relents from sending calamity.”
Furthermore, Isaiah 58:6-7 emphasizes the true spirit of fasting: Is this not, rather, the fast that I choose: releasing those bound unjustly, untying the thongs of the yoke; Setting free the oppressed, breaking off every yoke? Is it not sharing your bread with the hungry, bringing the afflicted and the homeless into your house; Clothing the naked when you see them, and not turning your back on your own flesh?”
As we observe Lent, let us remember that the essence of this period is not merely in the external acts of fasting but in the inner transformation it brings. Lent calls us to renew our commitment to Christ, deepen our prayer life, and extend our hands in charity to those in need. By embracing these practices with a sincere heart, we prepare ourselves to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord with a spirit of true joy and renewal.
May this Lenten season be a time of profound spiritual growth and a reminder of God’s abundant grace and mercy. As we journey through these days of reflection and penitence, let us strive to live out the words of Matthew 6:33: “But seek first the kingdom [of God] and his righteousness, and all these things will be given you besides.” In this season of Lent, let us draw nearer to God, reflect on His word, and renew our hearts in preparation for the celebration of His resurrection.