February 26 marked the beginning of Lent, a 40-day period in the Catholic Church of abstinence, prayer, giving, and fasting. Many people make promises to either give something up, or work on something they want to be better at, and become closer to God.

Sophomore Ashley Nalls decided to give up sweets and work on getting closer to God. She admitted that she is tempted a lot by people around her with candy and the candy at her home, but she has yet to break her promise. Although she gave up the same thing last year, she says it is still difficult to maintain her promise to avoid it. 

“I usually make two promises: one would be giving something up and the second would be to pray or do something kind that would bring me closer to God,” said Nalls.

As an alternative to giving up something such as junk food, junior Maeve Smith decided to stay away from social media. She says that in the past she has kept up with her Lenten promise; sometimes it was intentional and sometimes she did not realize she was still doing it. People’s promises this year could potentially be affected by the coronavirus. Smith said that it has been a little harder to stay away from social media now that she is home, but she is trying her best to not redownload certain apps.

“I gave up most social media and it’s been a great experience for me,” Smith commented.

Linda Ruszkowski, Director of Campus Ministry, emphasizes the importance of Lent. She sees it as a chance to step back and reconnect with her faith life. Lent, to her, is a time to focus and sacrifice, and to be reminded of her relationship with God. Ruszkowski also views Lent as a chance to see hope in times of trouble. It has helped her really put all her faith in God and understand that she can always turn to him in times of struggle or challenge.

“Through the sacrifices I made of prayer, fasting, and giving— I’m really able to see things in a different way and recharge my heart and my relationship with Christ and those around me,” expressed Ruszkowski.