Lenten Practices Can Foster Spiritual Growth

Azalea bush in Motherhouse gardens.

On Feb. 22nd, Ash Wednesday, the liturgical season of Lent begins in the Catholic Church. Lent is a 40-day period leading up to Easter Sunday that commemorates the 40 days Jesus Christ spent in prayer and fasting in the desert before he began his public ministry.

The word “Lent” in English is a shortened form of the Old English word, lencten, meaning “spring season.” Signs of spring coming on the Motherhouse campus are azalea bushes budding and blooming and hydrangeas transforming from barren branches in winter to branches full of the beginning of new leaves.

Hydrangea bush sprouting new leaves. 

Both azaleas and hydrangeas need some shade, as full sun, especially in Florida, is too much for them.

As we observe the change of the seasons here in Northeast Florida, we can reflect on what we can do by way of prayer and/or fasting to foster our own spiritual growth and deepen our relationship with God and love of the Dear Neighbor and all of God’s creation. Whatever we choose to do during Lent, let it help us grow into the person God created us to be - in nature, grace and glory.

Azalea bush budding on Motherhouse campus.