Lent
Traditionally, Lent was not observed by Mennonites, and only recently have more modern Mennonite churches started to focus on the six week season preceding Easter. The choice to fast or to abstain from a certain food or habit is considered a personal one, and many Mennonites do not choose to do so. Rather, the Lenten season is viewed as a time to focus on the life and death of Christ; a time to examine our own lives and await the promise of Easter. During the season, many churches plan their Sunday worship services around a theme of spiritual renewal. Palm Sunday is often celebrated with special songs, and some might have a small reenactment of the triumphal entry, with children waving palm branches. Most churches do have a worship service either on Maundy Thursday or Good Friday. These programs vary by church–some might share a meal, others a music program, or perhaps a drama. Communion is usually shared on Maundy Thursday, often accompanied by the sacrament of foot washing. Easter Sunday is a time of celebration and singing; churches often have special sunrise services or fellowship time in the morning, and families and friends often gather to share large meals.
