Are Sundays Part of Lent?
Lent is a sacred season of prayer, fasting, and penance observed by Christians in preparation for Easter. But one common question often arises:
👉 Are Sundays part of Lent?
👉 Does Lent include Sundays in its 40 days?
This article explores the liturgical, historical, and spiritual role of Sundays during Lent, providing clarity for those seeking to live the season faithfully.
📆 Does Lent Include Sundays?
Technically, Sundays are not included as days of fasting or penance in the 40 days of Lent.
- According to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) and long-standing Church tradition, Sundays remain “mini-Easters”, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
- This means that while Lent spans 46 calendar days from Ash Wednesday to Holy Saturday, only 40 are considered days of penance—Sundays are excluded from that count.
📜 A Brief History: Why Lent Has 46 Days but Only 40 of Fasting
| Event | Liturgical Significance |
|---|---|
| Lent begins on Ash Wednesday | 46 days before Easter |
| Sundays are excluded from fasting | They are days of joy and resurrection |
| Traditional 40 days of Lent | Refers to the number of days Jesus fasted in the desert |
In the 4th century, the Church established a 40-day period of penance to imitate Christ’s 40 days in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1–11). Since Christians never fasted on Sundays—days reserved for worship and Eucharist—those were excluded from the fasting calendar.
Thus, we arrive at:
- 40 days of penance (excluding Sundays)
- 46 actual calendar days (including Sundays)
🎉 Why Are Sundays Treated Differently During Lent?
Sunday, the first day of the week, is the weekly commemoration of Christ’s resurrection. It has always been a day of celebration, community, and worship.
"The resurrection of Jesus is the foundation of the Christian faith, and every Sunday is a little Easter."
(Catechism of the Catholic Church, CCC 1166–1167)
Therefore, fasting and abstinence are not required on Sundays during Lent, although personal prayer and reflection are still encouraged.
🤔 Are Sundays Part of My Personal Lenten Sacrifice?
This is where personal discernment comes in. While the Church doesn’t obligate fasting or penance on Sundays, individuals may choose to continue or pause their Lenten sacrifices.
🟢 Options:
- Continue your penance: as an act of spiritual discipline.
- Pause on Sundays: honoring the day as one of joy and renewal.
The key is consistency and intentionality. You may ask yourself:
"Am I doing this sacrifice for discipline or as a rule?"
"Does taking a break on Sunday help or hinder my spiritual growth?"
🙏 The Role of Sundays in the Spiritual Rhythm of Lent
Though not penitential, Sundays serve a crucial function during Lent:
| Aspect | Spiritual Impact |
|---|---|
| Rest and renewal | Reconnect with the joy of the Resurrection |
| Worship and community | Attend Mass and focus on God’s Word and Eucharist |
| Reflection | Evaluate the meaning of your sacrifices and inner growth |
Father Michael Russo emphasizes that Sundays are essential for spiritual balance. They are moments to breathe, reflect, and remember the joy at the end of the Lenten journey—Easter.
📌 Are Sundays Part of Lent?
- ✅ Liturgically: Yes, Sundays occur during Lent.
- ❌ Penitentially: No, they are not part of the 40 fasting days.
- 🛐 Spiritually: Sundays serve as sacred pauses to rejoice in Christ’s victory.
Whether or not to maintain your Lenten sacrifice on Sundays is a personal choice, made best through prayerful discernment. The ultimate goal of Lent remains: conversion of heart, deeper union with God, and preparation for the Resurrection.
Frequently Asked Questions: Are Sundays Part of Lent?
Are Sundays part of Lent?
Yes, Sundays are part of the Lenten season, which lasts from Ash Wednesday to Holy Week. However, Sundays are not prescribed days of fasting or abstinence, as they are considered days of joy and celebration commemorating Jesus' resurrection.
Does Sunday count in the 40 days of Lent?
No, Sundays are not included in the 40 days of penance and fasting leading up to Easter. The 40-day period begins on Ash Wednesday and ends on Holy Thursday, excluding Sundays.
Do Catholics have to fast on Sundays during Lent?
No, Catholics are not required to fast on Sundays during Lent. Sundays are considered days of celebration and joy, and fasting is not prescribed on these days.
Why are Sundays not considered days of fasting during Lent?
Sundays have long been recognized as days of rest and celebration in Christianity, commemorating the resurrection of Jesus. Fasting is not considered appropriate on these days of joy.
What should Catholics do on Sundays during Lent?
Father Michael Russo recommends that Sundays during Lent be reserved for rest and reflection. He suggests that Catholics use this time to connect with God through prayer and quiet moments.