Changes to Mass during Lent

Liturgical seasons of the Church calendar each have their own characteristics, and Lent is a season which stands out in some unique ways. Let’s explore some of the things you might notice at Mass and in the churches of our parish over the next 40 days. These practices can help us draw closer to the sacred mysteries as we turn away from sin and prepare for the great celebration of Easter!

🟣 Purple: The church decorations and vestments of the clergy change to violet. Violet, or purple, was originally associated with royalty. Pontius Pilate had a purple robe placed on Jesus during the Passion to mock him as “King of the Jews.” Thus, purple symbolizes suffering, mourning, and penitence.

🎶 No singing or saying the Gloria: Lent is a time of sacrifice and purification, so celebrator songs of “high praise” like the Glory to God are omitted. Except on the Solemnities of St. Joseph and the Annunciation.

🎼 No singing or saying the Alleluia: During most of the year, Catholics sing or say the Alleluia before the reading of the Gospel. However, this is not permitted in Lent. It is another fast that we observe during the season.

🌺No flowers on the altar: During Lent, it is forbidden for the altar to be decorated with flowers except on Solemnities and Feasts.

✝️ Veiling crosses and statues (optional): Beginning on Fifth Sunday of Lent, this custom helps us concentrate on Christ’s work of redemption during these last days of the season. Crosses remain covered until the end of the Celebration of the Lord's Passion on Good Friday, but images remain covered until the beginning of the Easter Vigil.