10 Easy Lent Lessons and Free March Bulletins!

1. Historical Background

Let’s uncover the roots of Lent. Way back in the early Christian days, people wanted a special season to prepare for Easter. They started fasting and reflecting on their actions. Fast forward to 325 AD, during a big meeting called the Council of Nicaea. They (informally) decided to make Lent 40 days long, just like the 40 days Jesus spent in the wilderness. This decision by important leaders has shaped how different Christian groups worldwide celebrate Lent today.

2. Liturgical Colors Lent Lessons

Unpack the symbolism behind the liturgical colors of purple and violet during Lent. Explain that these colors signify penance, preparation, and royalty. The association between the color purple and royalty has historical roots that date back to ancient times. In the past, purple dye was rare and expensive to produce, making it a symbol of wealth and luxury. The process of gathering purple dye was labor-intensive and involved extracting it from certain types of shellfish, particularly the Murex snail.

3. Fasting and Abstinence Lent Lessons

Lent challenges us to skip certain foods or activities to remember Jesus spending 40 days in the wilderness. It’s like a test of strength and discipline. This practice stems from biblical roots, where Jesus fasted.  Explore the spiritual significance behind abstaining from certain foods and activities, emphasizing the idea of self-discipline and aligning oneself with the sacrifice of Christ. Encourage students to contemplate how these practices can deepen their connection to the Lenten journey.

4. Lent “Would You Rather” Activity

My students often respond to sacrifice suggestions with, “I could NEVER do that!” Before they get a chance to shut down all creative ideas, use this “Would You Rather” game to get them thinking of what they COULD choose to give up or add for Lent. This activity will spark conversation, get kids moving, and give ideas for Lent (other than the standard: “I gave up chocolate.”) If you need even MORE sacrifice ideas, check out this blog post with sacrifices for all levels of motivation.

5. Ash Wednesday Insights

Shed light on the significance of Ash Wednesday, exploring the symbolism of ashes and their connection to repentance. Share lesser-known facts, such as the practice of using ashes as a sign of penance dating back to the Old Testament. Did you know that Job SAT in Ashes? This Ash Wednesday Reading Comprehension packet is a great intro to Ash Wednesday and will get kids to understand, think about, and discuss the beginning of Lent. There’s also a packet on Lent if you want a broader view of the season. Each of these worksheet sets includes a 1-page reading at various reading levels, multiple choice questions, discussion questions, and a 1-pager template to encourage students to show their learning. These Lent lessons take on prep time and will give kids a great background of information.

6. Lenten Journal

Advocate for personal reflection by encouraging students to maintain a Lenten journal. Highlight the benefits of journaling, such as providing a space for Lectio Divina and expressing gratitude. This SOAP journal is a perfect place to reflect on daily readings and build a habit of bible reading during Lent. The Lent readings for Catholic Mass are (of course) selected to build an understanding of Lent and increase our faith. Daily Lent lessons in journaling will build understanding through the season!

8. Interactive Daily Discussion Slides

I’m so excited about these! The daily discussion slides feature saint quotes, Bible verses, jokes, and engaging prompts. Some discussions are serious, a lot are silly. The focus is to get kids talking and getting excited about religion. It will start every class with Lent lessons and discussion points.  

9. Lent Lessons: Art Projects

Merge spirituality with creativity by assigning Lenten-themed art projects. Discuss how art can be a powerful medium for expressing one’s faith and reflections on the Lenten journey. Encourage students to explore different artistic techniques while incorporating symbolic elements of Lent, fostering a deeper connection to their spirituality through creative expression. My favorite Lenten art project is Black Out Poetry. Kids dig into scripture and use religious symbols to create beautiful artwork. If you’re going to create blackout poetry, get some new markers; kids will want to cover the whole page and they get frustrated if the marker dries out halfway through the project. This download is also FREE!

Year B (2024): Catholic Kids Bulletins in English & Spanish

Do you want ONE file with a whole year of Catholic Kids Bulletins to help kids worship at Mass? Buy the bulletins as a full-year download! As always, the monthly bulletins will remain free, but the yearly version is way more convenient.

Buy one easy download to get…

• A full year of bulletins
• Over 50 Catholic saints including Saint Anthony, Saint Kateri, and Saint Martin de Porres
• The entire liturgical year including Ordinary time, Lent, and Advent
• Holy Days of Obligation
• Holy Week
• Click HERE for more info!