preLent

Pre-Lent is a term used in some Christian liturgical calendars to describe a period of preparation for Lent. It generally refers to the time immediately before Lent, when believers prepare through reflection, fasting, prayer, and almsgiving. The concept is especially associated with Western Christian practice, where historically it included the pre-Lenten Sundays of Septuagesima, Sexagesima and Quinquagesima, occurring a few weeks before Ash Wednesday.

Since the late 20th century, the formal use of these names has diminished in many Western churches, and some jurisdictions treat the week preceding Lent as Shrovetide rather than a distinct pre-Lent season. Nevertheless, a general sense of a preparation period remains in many denominations.

Observances during pre-Lent emphasize prayer, repentance, and preparation for Lent. Believers may observe intensified private and communal prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, with readings and hymns focusing on conversion. In Western practice, Shrove Tuesday marks its end and the start of Lent; in Eastern churches the pre-Lent period is part of the Triodion and leads into Great Lent with increasingly strict fasting.

The usage and exact observances of the term vary by tradition. In some calendars, Pre-Lent is a distinct season with its own liturgical character, while in others it is a general designation for the weeks immediately preceding Lent.