St. Theresa Church
Senjai — Karaikudi
Overview of the Lenten Season
The Lenten Season is a sacred 40-day journey of prayer, fasting, repentance, and spiritual renewal. It begins on Ash Wednesday and concludes on Holy Saturday, preparing the faithful to celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ on Easter Sunday. Lent invites every believer to deepen their relationship with God through reflection, sacrifice, and acts of compassion.
Lenten Procedure / Observances
1. Ash Wednesday
- Receiving ashes as a symbol of repentance
- Beginning the Lenten fasting and prayer commitments
- Reflecting on life, humility, and God's mercy
2. Daily Prayer & Meditation
- Morning or evening personal prayer
- Reading the Holy Scriptures
- Reflecting on Jesus’ suffering and love
3. Fasting & Abstinence
- Fasting on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday
- Abstinence from meat on all Fridays of Lent
- Personal sacrifices (media, sweets, habits)
4. Works of Charity
- Helping the poor, sick, elderly, or needy
- Offering time and acts of kindness
- Supporting parish outreach programs
5. Stations of the Cross
- Held every Friday in Lent
- Meditation on the Passion of Christ
6. Sacrament of Reconciliation
- Confessing sins with sincerity
- Receiving God’s mercy & spiritual healing
7. Holy Week Observances
- Palm Sunday – Jesus’ triumphant entry
- Maundy Thursday – The Last Supper
- Good Friday – Crucifixion of Jesus
- Holy Saturday – Waiting in prayer
Lenten Prayers
1. Prayer for the Lenten Journey
Heavenly Father, As we begin this season of Lent, grant us the grace to turn our hearts fully toward You. Strengthen us in prayer, guide us in sacrifice, and help us grow in love. May this holy season lead us to renewal and deeper faith. Amen.
2. Prayer of Repentance
Lord Jesus, Forgive my sins and cleanse my heart. Help me walk in humility, compassion, and truth. May Your mercy renew my spirit and draw me closer to You. Amen.
3. Prayer for Fasting
O Lord, As I fast, help me seek spiritual nourishment more than physical comfort. May this sacrifice bring me closer to Your presence and strengthen my soul. Amen.
4. Prayer During the Stations of the Cross
Jesus, In Your suffering, You showed the depth of Your love. Help me carry my cross with faith and courage. May Your sacrifice inspire me to live with compassion and obedience. Amen.
5. Prayer for Holy Week
Almighty God, During this Holy Week, help me meditate on the final days of Jesus’ earthly life. May His passion, death, and resurrection fill me with hope and renewed purpose. Amen.
6. Easter Vigil Prayer
Risen Lord, You conquered death and brought eternal life. Fill my heart with Your joy and strengthen my faith. May I live as a witness of Your light. Amen.