The word “Lent” comes from an Anglo-Saxon word referring to the lengthening of days moving from winter to spring. The season begins with Ash Wednesday and lasts for 40 days (excluding Sundays), recalling the Israelites’ journey through the desert, as well as Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness. This is a reflective and penitential season, encouraging Christians to examine themselves as they remember the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus on their behalf.