The Tribune

By JEFFARAH GIBSON

Tribune Features Writer

jgibson@tribunemedia.net 

As Lent begins, families across The Bahamas are embracing a season of reflection, sacrifice, and spiritual growth.

Traditionally observed for 40 days leading up to Easter, Lent is a time for Christians to deepen their faith through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. While some choose to give up personal luxuries, others focus on acts of service and gratitude.

For many, Lent is an opportunity to reset priorities and be more intentional in daily life. Whether it’s a child learning the value of sacrifice by giving up sweets or a parent trading screen time for family devotionals, the season is a reminder that small changes can lead to spiritual renewal.

While many take an individual path, several Bahamian families have taken the time to make sacrifices together as way to deepen their faith and grow their bonds. 

For the Thompson family, Lent is about mindfulness and self-discipline.

“We always tell our kids that Lent isn’t just about giving something up—it’s about making room for something better,” said Jennifer Thompson, a mother of two. “This year, we’re giving up eating out and donating the money we would have spent to a local charity. 

Jennifer and her husband, David, said they want their children to understand that sacrifice can benefit others. Their son, Daniel, 14, she said is taking on his own challenge by giving up video games. 

“My son shared with me that he is giving up video games after school. Instead he want to help his younger sister with her homework.  He knows it will not be easy but he is ready for the challenge. 

Jennifer added that her younger daughter Mia, 10, decided to give up soda and candy.

Jennifer said Lent is not just about temporary sacrifices but about forming better habits. “Maybe after 40 days, we’ll eat out less and appreciate our meals more. Maybe Daniel will keep spending more time with his sister. The goal is to grow beyond the season.”

For the Johnson family, Lent is about replacing distractions with faith and connection.

“We’ve decided to give up social media in the evenings and replace it with family prayer,” said Don Johnson, father of three. “It’s easy to get caught up in distractions, but this season reminds us to refocus on what really matters.”

His daughter, Sofia, 16, admitted that this change won’t be easy. “I spend so much time scrolling through my phone, so I know this is going to be a challenge. But I also think it’ll help me be more present with my family and in my faith.”

Her younger brother, Mateo, 12, is giving up his favorite YouTube videos and has agreed to read a Bible passage each night instead.

While Don said he is grateful that his family is learning to sacrifice, he also hopes this will also bring them closer together as a family.

“It’s not just about sacrifice — it’s about making space for something better,” she said. “Even if it’s just 30 minutes a night, it’s time well spent as a family.”

Meanwhile, the Farrington family is taking a different approach by focusing on acts of kindness rather than personal sacrifice.

“We’re trying something new this year,” said Deidre Farrington

“Instead of giving up something, we’re adding something — every day, we’re doing a small act of kindness, whether it’s donating an item, saying something kinds everyday, or just showing extra patience.”

Her husband, Ron, has encouraged their two children to get involved in the challenge.

Their son, Rohan, 10, is excited about the idea while Anaya 13, is collecting grocery stamps to donate.

Deidre believes this approach helps her family experience the true spirit of Lent. “It’s easy to think of Lent as a time to ‘give up’ things, but I love that my kids are seeing it as a time to give to others.”

While each family has a different approach, the heart of Lent remains the same — a time to reflect, grow, and prepare for Easter.