We have all heard that you should pray, fast, and give alms during Lent.

It is also a time to change old habits and begin new ones.

The Greek word that resonates during the season of Lent, metanoia, was described by St. John Paul II at his general audience on September 6, 2000, as “a profound conversion of mind and heart,” or, according to, merriam-webster.com a “transformative change of heart.”

I love that definition. It invites you to open your heart to what God wants for you.

Transformation requires courage and should not be approached casually.

Make changes

As we enter into Lent, consider how you can change your mind and heart to incorporate prayer and almsgiving into your daily life.

Form a habit that will carry you through Lent and beyond.

Here are a few ideas.

1. Prayer: Consider daily prayer.

Can you give 30 minutes a day to pray?

Consider starting and ending your day with prayer.

It is a beautiful way to thank God for the day ahead and for all you have accomplished.

Praying can be your own words or a recited prayer like the Rosary.

2. Confession: When was the last time you went to Confession?

Begin the season of Lent with the Sacrament of Reconciliation and make it a monthly routine.

The act of confessing your sins and expressing your sorrow allows the priest to give you absolution to cleanse your soul and allow you back into a state of grace. This is a beautiful sacrament given to us by Jesus Christ.

3. Attend Mass: As Catholics, Sundays and Holy days are our Mass obligation.

During Lent, try to attend Mass daily or at least several times a week.

You will find daily Mass beautiful and a way to fill your heart, mind, and soul.

4. Help a person in need: Do you know an elderly or disabled person who could use a little extra assistance?

Consider shoveling their snow, giving them a ride to an appointment or Mass, or spending time visiting with them.

5. Thank someone for all they do: Consider sending an email, text, or handwritten note saying, “thank you.”

This could be to a relative, co-worker, neighbor, or friend.

Taking the opportunity to acknowledge a good deed lets others know how much you appreciate them.

6. Make a donation to a charity: Consider a gift above and beyond what you normally do.

This can be to your church, the diocese, another Catholic organization, or any charity.

Giving some of your financial resources not only allows a charity to continue its good work, it allows you to give back some of what God has given to you.

Lent is a beautiful season of growth and new life.

Spend these 40 days in preparation for our Lord Jesus Christ’s Resurrection from the dead.

Enjoy a Lent filled with metanoia — a transformative change of heart. You will not be disappointed.

Have a grace-filled Lent!