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Lent is a season of sacrifice and prayerful preparation for the Pascal mystery of Easter. Providence Catholic High School celebrates Lent beginning with an annual Ash Wednesday Mass. Each year, students and faculty attend a ceremony in which ashes are distributed. This year’s Ash Wednesday Mass was celebrated by Father John Sotak. Junior Amanda Kochanny sang the responsorial psalm, “Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned,” and sophomore Andrea Massimilian sang a Communion meditation.

During the homily, Father Sotak said, “Do not tell others what you are giving up for Lent.” This statement challenges the Providence community to reflect upon the true meaning of Lenten observance. Instead of comparing ourselves with others, God wants us to focus on our own spiritual needs so that we do not lose sight of the true meaning of Lent. Father Sotak urged the congregation to focus on God and the journey toward personal improvement during this Lenten season. According to Providence Catholic theology teacher Kevin Oliver, “For me, Lent is an excellent opportunity to reflect on where I’m at. It helps me take a step back and think about my relationships with God and with other people.” As said by junior Carolyn Ferrill, “For me, Lent is a time to think about the extent of what Jesus really did for us.”

In addition to encouraging personal Lenten observance, Providence’s Augustinian Youth Ministry is sponsoring a Lenten food drive from Feb. 13-March 14. Students are asked to bring in non-perishable foods items which will be distributed to local parishes.

“Turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel.” This Gospel passage from Mark 1:15 urges Catholics to examine their lives and join in the active ministry of Jesus. Just as we anticipate the coming of spring and the renewal of nature, the Lenten season prepares us for a new beginning in Jesus Christ’s resurrection at Easter. “My favorite Bible image during Lent is from Hosea when God says to his people, ‘Come back to me with all your heart, don’t let fear keep us apart,’” Oliver said. During this Lenten season, the Providence Catholic community strives to become closer to God and to be ever mindful of the true meaning of Lent.