As the season of Lent draws near, four members of the public in Gloucester tell us about their approach to this time of reflection and spiritual growth.
The Revd Canon Dr Sandra Millar said, “Lent is the season where, as Christians, individually and together we prepare to journey with Jesus to the cross. It reminds us of when Jesus was in the wilderness being tempted and yet he kept his focus on his relationship with God the Father.
“In churches, people’s worship will have a different feel to it, for example there are no flowers in church during Lent and we try to focus on our own relationship with God more deliberately. Many churches will have focused prayer and study groups during Lent.
“The three spiritual disciplines of Lent traditionally are fasting, prayer and giving, and people might choose any or all of those approaches to deepening their spiritual life.
“For myself, whilst I do often try to give something up, the main thing I would try to do is a more disciplined piece of spiritual reading. I try to use the framework of Lent to focus on my relationship with God.”
We asked people visiting Gloucester Cathedral about how and if they mark Lent.
Veronica said that in her childhood, Lent was a central part of her family life.
“When I was a child, my family and I observed Lent faithfully every year. As I got older, I introduced the tradition to my own children, and they kept it up. However, I haven’t continued this with my grandchildren, I think it’s up to their parents to make that decision.”
Veronica no longer observes Lent in the same way, but she remains aware of its significance.
“I still believe in God. I’m mindful of when Lent comes around, and I talk about it with my family every year.”
Andrew, a volunteer Chaplain at Gloucester Cathedral, chose not to share his plans for Lent, but he gave his thoughts on the wider meaning of the season.
“When one thinks of Lent, one often thinks of the throw-away phrase, ‘What are you giving up for Lent?’. But, actually, whenever we give something up, we’re saving something in return. This could be saving time or energy, by giving up an activity you enjoy. It could be saving money, by not drinking wine or eating sweets.
“The real challenge of Lent is to reallocate what we save, and use it for something that serves God’s glory.
“It might mean donating money to a charity, attending weekly services, or dedicating more time to prayer.
“The point isn’t simply to give up things; it’s to give for a higher purpose.”
Lisa is observing Lent this year by giving up one of her greatest pleasures: chocolate.
“Chocolate is something I love. I know it will be a challenge to give it up for six weeks. I do Lent with my daughter, and we can give up something that we love together which helps. I just think it’s important to either give something up or take on something extra for Lent. It’s a way to mark the journey toward Easter by doing something different.”
Kerry sees Lent as an opportunity for personal reflection and self-discipline. “I do Lent for the challenge of committing to something. It’s a time for me to focus on discipline.”
She is undecided about what she will do for Lent this year, but she is thinking about repeating last year’s sacrifice of giving up bread.
As Lent begins on Wednesday 5 March, known as Ash Wednesday, Christians will observe Lent in different ways.
If you’re looking for inspiration, visit our Lent webpage → Lent 2025.
Let us know how you will be trying to draw closer to God this Lent – share your stories and your ideas to help inspire others – email ku.gr1752416982o.coi1752416982dsolg1752416982@mosn1752416982asn1752416982 to share your story.
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