What Is Lent? Religious Studies Professor Explains the History Behind The Holy Season Leading To Easter

Did you know that Lent, the 40-day period of fasting and prayer preceding Easter, became common in Christian churches as early as the fourth century?

In an article for The Conversation, Joanne Pierce, professor of religious studies at Holy Cross, breaks down the history behind Lent and the ways in which this religious observance changed throughout time. 

Pierce, who specializes in Christian liturgy, believes that even though "some practices may have changed, Lent in the 21st century remains essentially the same as in centuries past: a time of quiet reflection and spiritual discipline."

To read the full article, go to TheConversation.com.