By REBEKAH REED
Ash Wednesday, which was Feb. 22, marked the beginning of Lent. Many people could be seen with crosses on their forehead — a tradition done on Ash Wednesday. Local churches, including the Comeau Catholic Campus Center at Fort Hays State University, hosted services during the day and evening that Wednesday.
Lent is a six-week period that predominantly Catholics observe. With the large Catholic population in Hays and Ellis County, many residents and college students participated in the observance.
Fort Hays student Evan Wilds has grown up observing Lent and continues to do so.
“Lent leads up to Easter. It is a time to bring you closer to God,” Wilds said. “We pray more and fast each Friday leading up to Easter, which includes Good Friday (April 7).”
Fasting might be an unfamiliar discipline to some.
“The purpose of fasting is to control what you put into your body, which alludes to control over sin,” Wilds said.
The period of fasting is roughly 40 days, which equals the time Jesus fasted in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11). The purpose of fasting is to remind a participant to rely on Jesus during temptation and hard times.
Lent is not only a time for personal growth but also a time to serve. Wilds said his church does a lot of volunteering as well.
Everything observers of Lent do is to bring them closer to God and to be more like Jesus.
Observing Lent is not limited to those who are a part of the Catholic Church. Wilds said Lent is for anyone.
“Anyone can observe Lent,” he said. “Anyone can receive ashes. All are welcome into this time to prepare your heart for Easter day when we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ.”