For most Maltese, today marks the start of Lent. If you’re unfamiliar with the ritual, it’s a 40-day period characterized by prayer and abstinence ahead of the Easter celebrations. Dictated by a long-standing tradition, locals have a very particular way of going about it.
Ash Wednesday
The start of Lent is marked by an obligatory mass during which ash originating from burnt palm trees from the previous year’s Palm Sunday celebrations is sprinkled on foreheads, an act which symbolises penance. Several localities across both islands also hold pilgrimages following the church service, with the most notable celebration happening in Senglea.
What is Lent?
Most practising Christians are only familiar with the basic rituals, such as not consuming meat on Fridays, and at times also Wednesday. Whilst this may be confusing in present times, meat was regarded as a sign of luxury in olden days, yet this practise stands strong to this day. Oftentimes, locals are encouraged to also omit comfort foods such as sweet and savoury snacks and replace them with more basic sustenance. While following this is obligatory on Fridays, there are also those who limit their favourite food items for the whole 40 days.
Church services
An interesting element to Lent is the colour of drapery used for church services during this period. Where usually a priest would don green robes, mass is celebrated with the inclusion of pink and purple tones.
Ezercizzi, or Lenten sermons are also held with the aim of creating a reconciliatory atmosphere between man and God.
Our Lady of Sorrows Day
Held exactly one week before Good Friday, the day symbolizes the pain suffered by Jesus's mother, Maria. Penitence is enforced on this day and processions are also held in various localities with the most popular being that of the Lady of Jesus church in Valletta.
The Holy week
The most prominent part of lent is the Holy Week. Three big events happen during this time: Palm Sunday - commemorating Jesus's triumphant entry in Jerusalem, Maundy Thursday - commemorating Jesus's Last Supper and Good Friday - commemorating Jesus's death. Seperate events, all respecting longstanding traditions are held for each of these days, such as visiting seven churches on the Thursday and attending one of the grand processions held on Good Friday (Cospicua, Malta and Xaghra, Gozo are famous for these).
These events all lead to the Easter Sunday celebrations (cue the figolli and chocolate easter eggs).