They are committing to 40 days of sacrifice.
Lent, which begins on Ash Wednesday, is a 40-day season in the Christian calendar where individuals traditionally give up something to focus on self-reflection and spiritual growth. According to a recent survey by Lifeway Resources, a majority of Americans—74%—do not observe Lent, while 26% say they typically participate in the season. Among those who do observe Lent, Catholics (58%) and Hispanics (36%) were the most likely to take part, while those who rarely or never attend religious services were least likely to observe it, with 89% not participating.
The survey also found that among those who observe Lent, half choose to fast from a favorite food or drink, while 37% give up a bad habit. Other common practices include praying more (34%), fasting from a favorite activity (25%), or reading Lenten Bible verses or devotions (22%). Lifeway Executive Director Scott McConnell explained that fasting during Lent is not about earning favor but about redirecting one’s focus toward Jesus Christ and strengthening one’s faith.
The study, conducted in August 2024, surveyed 1,200 Americans and has a margin of error of ±3.3%. The findings mirror a similar survey conducted in 2016, which found that 24% of Americans observed Lent, and 76% did not. In that previous survey, 61% of Catholics reported observing Lent, along with 28% of Evangelicals and 20% of Protestants.
Lent is observed as a time of preparation for Easter, marking the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the wilderness. For those who observe it, the season involves acts of fasting, prayer, and self-denial. Lifeway’s findings reveal the continued divide in participation across different demographics, with Catholics and Hispanics being more likely to observe Lent than other groups.
While the majority of Americans may not participate in Lent, those who do view it as a meaningful time to deepen their faith and grow spiritually. The practice of giving up something during Lent is a reflection of the 40-day fast Jesus undertook in the Bible and continues to be a significant tradition for many Christian communities.