Embracing Lent with the Saints: A Season of Prayer, Fasting, and Almsgiving

Lent is here! This sacred season gives us forty days to refocus on what truly matters—our relationship with God. It’s a time of prayer, sacrifice, and generosity, all leading us closer to the joy of Easter. But let’s be real—life gets busy, and sticking to Lenten commitments can be tough. That’s where the wisdom of the saints comes in. Their lives give us beautiful, practical ways to make Lent more meaningful, especially for families with little ones.

The Three Pillars of Lent: Saints Who Show Us the Way

Lent revolves around three key practices: prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. If you’re wondering how to live these out (without overcomplicating things), take a little inspiration from some of our favorite saints.

1. Prayer: Talking to God Every Day

St. Thérèse of Lisieux, known for her “little way,” teaches us that even the smallest prayers said with love are powerful. You don’t have to do anything fancy—just make prayer a natural part of your day.

• Make it a family thing: Start or end the day with a simple prayer together.

• Learn from the saints: Pick a saint each week and ask for their intercession.

• Try the Rosary: Even just a decade a day helps shift our focus to Christ.

Want to create a cozy prayer space? A soft, saint-themed blanket from Saintly Snuggles can turn bedtime or quiet time into a peaceful moment with God.

2. Fasting: Making Room for God

St. Gianna Beretta Molla, a modern saint and devoted mother, showed us how love and sacrifice go hand in hand. Fasting isn’t just about food—it’s about letting go of distractions and making more space for God.

• Simplify meals: Use Lent as a chance to be grateful for simple, nourishing food.

• Take a screen break: Cut back on social media or TV and spend that time with your family or in prayer.

• Swap indulgence for kindness: Instead of a treat, do something nice for someone else—like writing a thoughtful note or helping a friend.

3. Almsgiving: Giving with a Joyful Heart

St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta lived by the words, “Give until it hurts.” But giving doesn’t have to be painful—it can be joyful, especially when done as a family.

• Donate to a cause: Find a Catholic charity or local food pantry to support.

• Teach kids to give: Help them set aside part of their allowance for someone in need.

• Gift with meaning: Share faith-filled gifts, like a Saintly Snuggles blanket, with someone who could use a reminder of God’s love.

Bringing Lent to Life at Home

Lent doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Small, simple acts—like snuggling up with a saint blanket and reading a story about their life—can plant seeds of faith in little hearts. Whether you’re deepening your prayer life, giving something up, or finding ways to be more generous, the important thing is to do it with love.

How is your family observing Lent this year? Share your traditions with us on Instagram @saintlysnugglesco—we’d love to hear from you!

Shop Saintly Snuggles today to add a touch of faith and comfort to your Lenten season.