According to our preacher most Baptist grew up not understanding Lent and we did not give anything up like the Catholic. But now it has become more common for religions other than the Catholic to observe Lent. Personally I have made th choice to give up something for Lent - making a sacrifice. During our Ash Wed. service our preacher said he would rather you add than take away - example add time to your devotional/prayer time, perhaps add to your tithes. But if you felt that you should give something up in sacrifice then by all means do so. I know when I was young I did not have a clue what Lent was and as far as giving something up, I never did nor did anyone in my family. I do not even remember my church having an Ash Wed. service. My girls learned about Lent and sacrifice in Sunday School and they wanted our family to observe it. I believe giving up something is still more common for Catholics. I have made it to Friday without a Diet Coke!!! I cannot wait until Sunday!! I may drink a 12 pack!!!!

I think it depends on the individual church but since I'm catholic I can only speak to the few Lutheran churches know. My neighbor is Lutheran and studying to be a minister. she follows the same rules that I do excpet the fasting.

Giving up something for Lent should also include increasing spirtual devotions. each time you are struggling with the want for what u gave up u are to pray. remember this was started a LONG time ago when people were giving up what was probably closer to a necessity than my giving up sweets.

allgirls

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allgirls, mom to 3 girls