Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, a season of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. It’s a day to reflect on our need for repentance and to turn our hearts toward God.
Printable Activity:
- Crown of Thorns Rose Craft: Use our Crown of Thorns Rose Activity to encourage acts of kindness and sacrifice throughout Lent.
- Lent Countdown: Follow along with our Lent Roadmap to keep your family focused on prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. A free coloring version is available as well!
- Stations of the Cross Reflection & Sequencing Cards: Help children reflect on the Passion of Christ with these cards, which encourage prayer and understanding of each station.
Food:
Meatless Meal Ideas – Since fasting and abstinence from meat are practiced on Ash Wednesday and Fridays in Lent, a simple meal like fish, shrimp tacos, bean soup, pancake breakfast for dinner, or cheese pizza helps children understand the spirit of sacrifice.
Activity:
- Lenten Intentions Calendar – Create a calendar where each day focuses on a person or cause to pray for or sacrifice for. Rotate who chooses the intention, fostering intentional prayer and acts of charity throughout Lent.
- Receive Ashes & Choose a Lenten Fast – Attend Mass or a prayer service to receive ashes as a reminder of our dependence on God. Encourage children to choose a Lenten fast, such as giving up TV, social media, or a favorite treat, while also adding something positive like extra prayers or acts of kindness.
