Assessment of Religious Knowledge (ARK) Practice Exam

During the season of Lent, fasting and penance are integral practices observed by many Christian denominations, particularly within the Catholic Church and some Protestant traditions. Lent is a period of 40 days (not counting Sundays) leading up to Easter, during which believers often engage in self-examination, repentance, and spiritual discipline.

The purpose of these practices is to replicate the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the desert, and they serve as a way for Christians to prepare their hearts for the celebration of Christ's resurrection. Fasting can involve abstaining from certain foods, giving up specific pleasures, or adopting other forms of sacrifice, while penance may include acts of charity, prayer, and reflection.

Joyful feasts typically do not align with the solemnity of Lent, as the season is characterized by a more contemplative and somber mood. Similarly, while the celebration of the Eucharist is a significant aspect of the Christian faith, Lent emphasizes moderation and reflection rather than festive celebration. Ordinary Praise does not capture the essence of this reflective season, as it suggests a more casual or routine approach rather than the deep spiritual focus intended during Lent.

Fasting and penance are therefore the hallmark practices that define this sacred period, making it the correct answer