This past Sunday, our HS Youth Ministry gathered for a night focused on Lent and the kind of people we are becoming through it. We began with a fun team challenge called “Build It to Last.” Students worked together to build the tallest free-standing structure using simple materials. The room quickly filled with creativity and teamwork as groups experimented with different designs. As we stepped back to look at the finished structures, one lesson became clear: the tallest ones only stood when they had a strong foundation. That simple activity helped introduce an important truth… what we build our lives on matters.

From there, students moved into our main activity, “40 Days = 10 Years.” In small groups, they imagined what kind of person someone might become if they took Lent seriously year after year. Together they reflected on how the three pillars of Lent shape our character: Prayer builds stability, Fasting builds self-control, Almsgiving builds unity and compassion.

We talked about how Lent is spiritual training. Athletes train so they’re ready when the game begins. Musicians rehearse so they’re ready for the performance. We practice during Lent so they’re ready for real life.

Throughout the evening, students were invited to think about how the habits they practice today shape who they will become tomorrow. Lent is an opportunity not just to give something up, but to grow stronger in faith, character, and love for others, habits that will carry them far beyond these 40 days.