The one strange thing millennials are giving up for Lent

It makes sense when you think about it.

Perhaps the most widely known aspect of Lent is abstinence. During Lent, people choose something to give up, usually some small vice or bad habit. What are millennials giving up for Lent?

LOS ANGELES, CA (California Network) -- During the 40 day period of Lent, people abstain from some bad habit, vice, or distraction so they can spend more time in silence and recollection. It allows people to reconnect with God.

What are millennials giving up?

An analysis of social media by OpenBible.info, found that over 700,000 tweets pledged alcohol would be the top choice for millennials. Other things given up were social media, and sweets. In addition to giving up, some chose to take on extra duties, to perform charity, or to attend church more often.

Hartford Archbishop Leonard P. Blair suggested his parishioners engage in a phone fast, setting aside smartphones for added time in prayer and silence.

One sacrifice unique to millennials seems to be shame. Why would a person give up shame? Shame can keep us away from others. It can prevent us from going to church, and confession. This is often due to a lack of faith in the process of reconciliation. Young people fear their sins will not be forgiven or forgotten, and as a result they avoid church because it reminds them of their shame.

Giving up that shame can allow a person to repent fully and return to their faith community, welcomed like the Prodigal Son.

Pope Francis, who has an excellent reputation among millennials, has called upon them and others to make sacrifices that also help others. For example, skipping meals, or dining out and donating the savings to others. Giving up time on social media, and spending it serving the poor or those in need.

While most people make the usual sacrifices, there is a trend among millennials to do more for others as part of Lent. If this is the case, then we should praise the millennial generation. We have every reason to be proud of our Catholic millennials. 

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