Lent as a New Way of Being

By Sister Jackie Walsh, OSB

In Chapter 49 of Benedict’s Rule we read the life of a monastic should at all times be characteristic of Lenten Observance.

For those imperfections, or leprosies as a priest recently referred to them – those areas of my life that keep me from being in right relationship with God and neighbor – Lent is a time for more intense prayer, sacred reading, reflection and almsgiving. 

It isn’t about giving something up for a specific number of days on a calendar.

Rather it’s developing new habits, different thought or action patterns, more mindful ways of listening and responding to God in prayer and to others.

In short, it’s learning a new way of being.