Catholics called to prayer, penance, and almsgiving during Lenten season, beginning February 18

Lent begins on February 18, 2026, with Ash Wednesday, one of the most sacred days of the year for all Christians. Lent is a 40-day season of prayer and penance meant to help convert the faithful’s minds and hearts back to God. To help do this, Catholics pray, fast, and give alms. 

Bishop Mark Eckman said: “Lent is a time for us to reduce worldly distractions, focus on prayerful reflection and charitable acts as a means of drawing closer to God, for us to hear His voice. It is his voice that directs us to pray and to take action by serving others in faith and charity.” 

During Lent, Catholics observe days of fast and abstinence. In the Catholic Church, the obligation of abstinence (refraining from eating meat) begins at the age of 14. The law of fasting (limiting oneself to one full meal and two lighter meals) obliges all between the ages of 18-59. Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are days of fast and abstinence. Fridays of Lent are days of abstinence in the United States. Individuals who have a medical condition in which fasting may be considered harmful are not obliged to fast, but should perform some other act of penance or charity.

There are many opportunities in the diocese to connect with Jesus during the Lenten season:

• Churches around the diocese celebrate Mass and offer the distribution of ashes on Ash Wednesday. Check with parishes for their schedules. 
• Parish Fish Frys are a great opportunity for a delicious Lenten meal and parish fellowship. More information can be found in our Fish Fry Guide here: https://diopitt.org/fish-fry-guide.
• Text LENTDOP26 to 84576 to join the Lenten Challenge and receive an inspirational text message every day in Lent. 
• Read the Lenten issue of Pittsburgh Catholic magazine for reflections and meditations to guide your prayer life: https://diopitt.org/pittsburgh-catholic-magazine.
• Parishes offer the sacrament of reconciliation at various times. Please check your parish communications for details on days/times.
• For additional details on Lenten observances and events, visit: https://diopitt.org/lent.