For Catholics, our Lenten practices are not just things we “give up.” Our intentions are different from our well-meaning resolutions—those things that many of us resolved to do just seven weeks ago. During Lent, we stop certain habits that may distract us and take on practices to help us walk more closely with Jesus. There are many age-appropriate Lenten activity sheets available from Pflaum. This Catholic resource page on Lenten Fast and Abstinence will help you explain the guidelines we follow regarding food and other Lenten practices. You may also wish to send it home to your families.
Most children using the Pflaum Gospel Weeklies are not required to fast or abstain during Lent—these rules only begin to apply at age 14. However, changing their practices of regular prayer or Mass attendance, for example, are ways children and families can participate more fully in Lent. Explain that by giving up screen time, for example, children can use that time to pray or do good works for others. By removing candy or other treats from their diets, children and families can donate the money they would have spent to good causes. Lent can also help us act in solidarity with the poor and the suffering.
Throughout Lent, remind the children of the reason behind the changes they make. Their small, earnest sacrifices should honor Jesus’ greatest act of love, his Death on the Cross.
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