Eight items necessary for flawless Lenten environment

Lent calls us to clear away the things that distract us so that we can focus on the intense, retreat-like atmosphere of the season. Here are eight items necessary to help you prepare a great Lenten environment.

1. Clean and clutter-free pews, vestibules, sanctuaries, and reconciliation rooms.



2. Water in all the fonts.



3. A dignified Book of the Gospels.



4. A dignified Book of the Elect and a place to highlight it.



5. If possible, incense (the good stuff), fresh charcoal, and a beautiful thurible and stand.



6. Fresh candles, especially for the fourth Sunday of Lent.



7. A substantial cross (preferably the one to be venerated on Good Friday), especially for the final week of Lent (cf., Liturgical Music Today, 48).



8. A moment of substantial communal silence and stillness before Mass.

And some things to use less of:

• sand


• cactus


• dead, dried, or fake things


• oil lamps shaped to look like candles


• rocks in the font


• sand in the font


• banners with symbols or words on them


• vestments with symbols or words on them


• altar and ambo cloths with symbols or words on them