Didn’t the past year feel like one, long season of Lent? Do we really need to observe Lent 2021? At America, we get it. That’s why we’re offering all new Lenten reflections each week to accompany you through this difficult period. Journey with America’s editors as they reflect on Scripture, prayer, fasting and almsgiving both in written form and on “The Word” podcast.
This page will be populated throughout the duration of Lent. Subscribe to “The Word” in Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your favorite podcast player and never miss a reflection. You can also sign up for America’s daily newsletter to receive the written versions every day in your inbox.
Latest Reflection: This Lent, remember that the key to God’s forgiveness is to forgive others
Before Ash Wednesday:
What America’s editors are giving up (or taking on) this year
‘Haven’t we been living in Lent since last year?’ What America’s readers are doing this year
Ash Wednesday:
James Martin, S.J.: On Ash Wednesday, remember ashes are a symbol. The goal is transformation.
Terrance Klein: Why we need to hear the reminder ‘you are dust’ every year on Ash Wednesday
Imagine Lent Podcast Ep.1: Accompany Jesus at a vulnerable moment in the desert
Week 1 of Lent:
Jeremy McLennan: Catholics and Muslims: Who is really better at fasting and prayer?
Sunday Reflection by Jaime Waters: God loves all of creation. We should too.
Monday Reflection by Sebastian Gomes: Saint Peter’s flaws are a reminder that God loves us just as we are
Wednesday Reflection by Sebastian Gomes: Jesus warns against an ‘us versus them’ attitude. We should give it up this Lent.
Imagine Lent Podcast Ep.2: Watch Jesus call (and heal) Peter
Week 2 of Lent:
Sunday Reflection by Jaime Waters
Monday Reflection by Ashley McKinless
Wednesday Reflection by Ashley McKinless
Imagine Lent Podcast Ep.3: Jesus heals a paralytic
Essential Lent Reading:
- Why Catholics fast: searching for the tradition
- Lent is just not what it used to be
- What my 5-year-old taught me about prayer during Lent
- Will Lent resonate with Americans open to Dry January, juice cleanses and CrossFit?
- Fasting: a fresh look
- A mercy-filled Lent
- Pope Francis says give to the homeless, don't worry about how they spend it, as Lent begins
- A farewell to alms?
Check back each week for new reflections