Lent is the period of forty days prior to Easter; it is a season of reflection and preparation before the Easter celebrations. By observing the forty days of Lent, Christians replicate Jesus Christ’s sacrifice and the withdrawal into the desert. Very few people fast for the whole of Lent, though some maintain the practice on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. More often than not some people surrender a particular vice, such as favourite foods, drink or even smoking.

Shrove Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday, was originally a day to cleanse the soul and the last chance to feast before Lent. It is said that the tradition of making pancakes developed as a need to rid the kitchen of sweet items, in preparation for the period of fasting.

Ash Wednesday, indicates the beginning of Lent and a time for denying oneself of favourite food and drink. Whatever the sacrifice, it is a time of reflection of Jesus’ deprivation in the wilderness and the test of self discipline.

Palm Sunday, the Sunday before Easter, is when we remember Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, marking the beginning of Holy Week. Why is it called Palm Sunday? Because the crowds waved palm branches as they followed Jesus into the city for the Feast of the Passover.