Beginning on Ash Wednesday and ending with sunset on Holy Thursday, Lent is a time for deeper reflection, and surrender to God through greater prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. As we prepare for the celebration of Holy Week, culminating with Easter Sunday, we renew our connection to Christ’s baptism, death, and resurrection.
Whether you are looking for ways to get the most out of this Lenten season or have been away from the Church for a while: Welcome! Check back here for more resources and information as we get closer to this season of Lent.
Fat Tuesday
The Feast before the Fast
Fat Tuesday, also known as Shrove Tuesday, is the day before Ash Wednesday and the start of Lent. It’s traditionally a time of feasting before the fasting period begins.
Historically, Catholics used this day to consume rich foods like eggs, milk, and butter—often by making pancakes. This practice not only provided a final celebration before Lent but also helped clear out pantry staples that were traditionally restricted during the fasting period. Making pancakes became a practical and symbolic way to use up these ingredients before the season of sacrifice began.
Here is a pancake recipe to kick off your Shrove celebrations. Enjoy this tradition as a meaningful way to prepare for the spiritual journey of Lent!
Fluffy Ricotta Pancakes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
- 3/4 cup milk (not nonfat)
- 2 large eggs, separated
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Butter, for cooking
If your ricotta contains excess moisture, place it in a fine mesh strainer and allow it to drain for about 30 minutes before cooking. If the ricotta is already firm and dry, you can skip this step.
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, mix the ricotta, milk, egg yolks, and vanilla until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the ricotta mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
- Using a handheld mixer, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form (or whisk by hand).
- Stir a small portion of the beaten egg whites into the batter to lighten it, then gently fold in the rest with a spatula.
Cooking Instructions:
- Heat a griddle or skillet over medium-high heat and lightly coat it with butter.
- Use a 1/3-cup measure to pour the batter onto the hot griddle. Cook for 3–4 minutes, until the bottom is golden and bubbles appear on the surface.
- Flip the pancakes and cook for another 2–3 minutes until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining batter.
Serve immediately with maple syrup, fruit jam, lemon curd, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Enjoy!
Ash Wednesday
Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.
Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent, is observed with an ancient tradition wherein Catholics receive a mark made of ash on their foreheads. These ashes are usually made of burned palm fronds from the previous Palm Sunday and represent an outward symbol of a commitment to humility and repentance during the season of Lent.
Join us this Ash Wednesday as we begin Lent together. To find a parish near you:
Lent
Lent is a sacred season of preparation, reflection, and renewal leading up to Easter. It is a time for deepening our faith through prayer, fasting, and acts of charity. The Archdiocese of New York has prepared a simple guide explaining what you need to know to observe Lent in 2025. This three page booklet explores such topics as:
- Why do we receive ashes on Ash Wednesday?
- What is fasting and why do we do it?
- How can I deepen my Lenten experience?
- When are the different events of Holy Week?
- And more!
The Archdiocese invites you to download the free activity book below. Come together as a family in prayer, creativity, and grace to make a Lenten paper chain. Please enjoy this gift during this Lenten season.
Reconciliation Monday
Even now, says the Lord, return to Me with your whole heart.
Confession will be offered in all Parishes throughout the entire Archdiocese of New York, Diocese of Brooklyn, and the Diocese of Rockville Centre on Monday, April 14, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in preparation for Easter.