The First Sunday of Lent marks the beginning of the 40-day Lenten season, a time of repentance, prayer, fasting, and almsgiving in preparation for Easter. The Gospel reading typically recounts Jesus’ temptation in the desert (Matthew 4:1-11), where He fasts for 40 days and resists the devil’s temptations, setting an example of faithfulness and strength in the face of adversity. This Sunday calls Christians to reflect on their own temptations, repent for their sins, and renew their commitment to follow Christ. It is a reminder to deepen one’s relationship with God through prayer, penance, and spiritual discipline.

(*) denotes that the Lenten Sundays are moveable observance dates. These dates are determined based on Easter Sunday, a moveable feast based on the lunar and solar cycles of the Jewish calendar.