Lent is a season of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving—a time to draw closer to Christ through intentional sacrifice and deeper spiritual practices. One of the best ways to do this is by incorporating spiritual reading into your daily routine. By dedicating time each day to nourishing your soul with wisdom from the saints, Scripture, and Catholic tradition, you can enrich your Lenten journey and grow in faith.
If you’re wondering how to make spiritual reading a part of your Lenten resolution, here are some practical tips:
1. Start Small and Build Up
You don’t need to commit to reading an entire book in a week. Instead, begin with just five to ten minutes a day. Choose a short reflection, a passage from a spiritual classic like The Way, or even a few paragraphs from the writings of a saint. The key is consistency—making time every day to engage with spiritual reading.
2. Tie It to an Existing Habit
One of the easiest ways to create a new habit is by attaching it to something you already do. Consider reading a passage after your morning prayer, during your coffee break, or right before bed. Making spiritual reading a natural part of your routine ensures it doesn’t get forgotten.
3. Use Lent as an Opportunity for Accountability
If you struggle with self-discipline, consider joining a reading challenge or finding a reading partner. This year, Hallow’s Pray 40 Challenge is focusing on The Way by St. Josemaría Escrivá. This powerful book is filled with short, impactful reflections that can help guide your spiritual life. By downloading the app and participating in the challenge, you’ll have built-in motivation and a community walking alongside you in your Lenten journey.
4. Choose the Right Books
Selecting the right spiritual reading for Lent can make all the difference. Look for books that encourage reflection, inspire prayer, and challenge you to grow. Some great options include:
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Searching for and Maintaining Peace by Jacques Philippe – A practical guide to cultivating interior peace.
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In Conversation with God (Volume 2: Lent and Eastertide) by Francis Fernandez – Daily meditations on the readings of the season.
5. Pray Before and After Reading
Spiritual reading is not just about gaining knowledge—it’s about encountering God. Before you begin, ask the Holy Spirit to open your heart and mind. Afterward, take a moment to reflect on what you read and how it applies to your life. Consider journaling a key insight or a resolution inspired by your reading.
Make This Lent Different
By incorporating spiritual reading into your Lenten practices, you create space for God to work in your heart. Whether you join Hallow’s Pray 40 Challenge with The Way, pick up a new spiritual classic, or simply commit to a few minutes of reading each day, you’ll be setting yourself up for a transformative Lent. Start small, stay consistent, and watch how God uses this practice to draw you closer to Him.
