Lent was originally the time of preparation for those who were to be baptized, a time of concentrated study and prayer before their baptism at the Easter Vigil, the celebration of the Resurrection of the Lord early on Easter Sunday. Since these new members were to be received into a living community of faith, the entire community was called to preparation. Also, this was the time when those who had been separated from the Church would prepare to rejoin the community.
      Lent is marked by penitential prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. It is a time of prayer, especially penance, repenting for failures and sin as a way to focus on the need for the grace of God. Christians today use this period of time for introspection, self examination, and repentance. This season is equal in importance to the Season of Advent.