About Lent Event

How does Lent Event work?

Lent Event is a 40-day journey that engages the body, mind and spirit like no other. 

Lent Event participants give up an item or two from their everyday lifestyle over 40 days and donate the money saved to give some of the world’s suffering people a brighter future. In the past, participants who have taken part have given up items including coffee, alcohol, entertainment expenses such as movies and pay TV, bottled drinks, television, fast foods and takeaways, technology such as mobile phones, petrol and much more.

At the same time, participants immerse themselves in the spiritual disciplines of study, prayer and reflection. The discipleship resources provided by Lent Event (Prayer and Bible Study Book, Children's and Youth Resources and Worship Materials) enable individuals and communities to grow in their spiritual lives and in their understanding of the lives of people who are very poor.

Lent Event participants and communities continue to report how their lives are being refreshed and renewed through participation in Lent Event. People of all ages report a new vibrancy within their communities and a sense that they are being drawn closer together and more unified by their sense of purpose. 

How do I take part?

Step 1: What can you give up to change a life?

Reflect on your lifestyle and daily spending. Decide on something you are willing to give up for 40 days (e.g. fast food, coffees, sweets, treats, newspaper/magazines, entertainment).  Make note of the money you save by going without this item over 40 days and contribute this money to Lent Event.

Step 2: Get engaged with the issues

Use the Lent Event resources for Bible study, daily paryer and community worship and engage with the issues of  world poverty.

Step 3: Donate and make the difference

At the end of Lent, make your tax deductible donation to Lent Event.

The history behind Lent Event

Lent Event was the inspiration of Australian born, Sarah White. In 2005, Sarah felt moved to respond to extreme hardship faced by families facing extreme poverty and to encourage others to stand in solidarity with people who are very poor. 

The Lent Event concept builds on the ancient spiritual disciplines of Lent, the period of 40 days (excluding Sundays) before Easter. Lent begins on Ash Wednesday and ends at sundown on Easter Saturday. Sundays are not counted in the forty days as Sundays commemorate the resurrection of Jesus.

Lent was originally a time when Christians rededicated themselves, and when new believers were instructed in the faith and prepared for baptism. Lent is therefore a perfect time for intentional reflection and reorienting of our lives. We are reminded of the sacrifice God made for us through Jesus Christ, and how we are to sacrifice ourselves to help our the needy in our midst.

Lent Event is for everyone

Lent Event welcomes any individual or community who wishes to participate, regardless of their spiritual beliefs. The idea of living more simply to help others in need is one that many people are keen to embrace.

Lent Event offers all people the opportunity to help others in a practical way and, at the same time, to hear the story of Jesus  through the resources Lent Event provides.

If you have any questions about participating, Lent Event would be love to connect with you. You can find out details on the contact page.

Reasons to join us

Here are three main why Lent Event is worth being involved in:

1. Lent Event is not just supporting a good cause, it is a powerful spiritual journey.
2. Lent Event is educational and community building.
3. Lent Event is about doing with less, rather than giving more, allowing everyone to take part.

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