This year’s Lent started on March 5 and will go until April 17. Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent which is a time of reflection and repentance. It’s a 40 day season, excluding Sundays, that echoes the 40 days Jesus spent fasting and enduring temptation in the desert before beginning his public ministry. Lent sets out a time of trial and preparation through its three pillars- prayer, fasting, and almsgiving – in light of Good Friday and Easter Sunday. While Lent is historically a Catholic event, all Christians are encouraged to celebrate Lent regardless of their denomination. After interviewing teachers on campus, many responded by sharing the ways they are giving up or taking up something during the Lent season, aiming to deepen their faith and reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice for us. “Observing Lent offers meaningful spiritual benefits, providing a chance to pause, reflect, and deepen our faith”, Mrs. Kaleigh Smith said. “Whether through sacrifice or intentional study, Lent helps us realign our hearts with Christ, preparing us for the joy of Easter and the reminder that we are deeply cared for and never forsaken.” For Lent 2025, giving up sweets and social media tended to be the most popular for teachers at LRCA. Mrs. Terri Simpson said, “I am forgoing sweets for lent and praying when I think I need a sweet treat. It is a small thing but I feel it will prepare me to celebrate when Resurrection day is here.” Mrs. Andy Baxley agreed, “Whenever I think of sugar, I turn to the Lord in prayer, expressing gratitude for Easter and the sacrifice made for our salvation. Being intentionally focused on the Lord with your time is the reason for Lent,” Mrs. Baxley said. The Bible acknowledges fasting and self-examination as a way to turn away from sin and towards God. For instance, Moses fasted for 40 days on Mount Sinai. “I am fasting from phone time once I retire for the evening,” Mrs. Susan O’Keefe said. “In other words, no scrolling or stalking, no texting or TikToking once the nighttime routine commences.” Mrs. Buchanan, who is also fasting from social media, added, “I love how Lent serves to remind us of our deep need to be set free by Jesus. Lent reminds me that everything that isn’t God has the potential to addict and enslave us, even things that can be beneficial can get twisted to take control of us.” Lent not only sets out a time of trial and preparation, but also involves experiencing additional ways to grow spiritually, ultimately strengthening one’s faith in Christ and coming out more restored.