Welcome to the first edition of our Lent Challenge!
Ash Wednesday is here, marking the start of our Lenten journey! By taking part in this initiative, you are choosing to observe this season with purpose. But what is the purpose of Lent, and why does reducing our meat consumption align with it?
Though not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, Lent developed as a Christian tradition inspired by Jesus’ 40 days of fasting in the wilderness:
“Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tested by the devil. He fasted for forty days and forty nights, and afterwards, he was hungry.”
So, what does this tradition mean for Christians today? Jesus’ hunger was a test of faith, and we often give something up to reflect on this. Typically, we abstain from things we enjoy but don’t necessarily need, like chocolate or cigarettes. But beyond personal sacrifice, should our Lenten commitments have a wider impact? Jesus endured hunger to resist the devil, continue his ministry, and ultimately sacrifice himself for our salvation. Perhaps our Lenten commitments should also lead to positive change.
For centuries, fasting—especially from meat—was central to Lent. Today, with food systems responsible for 30% of global greenhouse gas emissions, reducing meat consumption is a powerful way to honour Lent while caring for creation. In Europe alone, 17% of total emissions come from animal farming, and over 71% of EU farmland is dedicated to meat and dairy. Shifting towards a more plant-based diet can lower our carbon footprint and free up land for biodiversity.
Now that you’ve signed up for this challenge, it’s up to you to see how much you can forgo to grow spiritually and reduce your impact on the planet. In the survey, you should have already set your targets (if not, you can do so here!). It’s important to keep these in mind and stick to them.
You’ll find weekly motivation through this newsletter, where Our Daily Bread collaborators will reflect on the benefits of eating less meat—exploring themes such as biodiversity, Lenten tradition, and animal welfare. For more practical support, join our WhatsApp channel (here), where our team will share tips, recipes, and encouragement.
For now, good luck—and enjoy the challenge!
Inspiration from the Vegetarian Society
Embracing a plant based diet is not as easy as just giving up meat and fish – especially when you are used to you usual and favourite recipes.
Thankfully the Vegetarians Society has plenty of tips and recipes to help you!
Haven´t you signed up yet?
- ✅ Set your goals – How far can you go in reducing meat consumption? Could you even become vegetarian for 40 days?
- 📩 Receive a weekly email – Get insights on food, faith, and sustainability, each with a spiritual reflection.
- 💬 Join our WhatsApp channel – Receive daily reminders, and experience the joy and challenges in a community. (optional)
- 📊 Complete the final survey – Let us reflect on the impact we had together.
