Vacation During Lent

[Mary1973]

Is it wrong to take a vacation during Lent? Two people in my choir are going on extended trips to places like Cancun.

 

[dylanschrader]

It is not objectively wrong to take a vacation during Lent. It may be imprudent depending on the situation, but that’s a subjective judgment.

 

[Mary1973]

Thanks. It just seem strange to me to be partying during a season of repentence.

 

[water]

Is it wrong to take a vacation during Lent? Two people in my choir are going on extended trips to places like Cancun.

I would say it is better to avoid having great time during the Lent. however, if this is the only season one has for vacation; then the question is how he spends his time to reflect the season of Lent. The atmosphere, surrounding, and its beauty can help her/him to focus on God. Quietness can help one listen to God.

 

[OraLabora]

Where I live, March break at school (first week of March) almost always falls in Lent. So sometimes we take a ski vacation with the kids. My usual Lent restrictions include no desserts, no alcoholic beverages, no snacks between meals, lower meat intake, spend much free time reading spiritual or theological texts, and doing greater acts of charity. I admit though the food and alcohol restrictions can be tough when eating out in restaurants. Also my wife often visits her mother and sister on the West Coast during Holy Week, with the kids, as they have time off from school. That’s like a vacation for me, even though I usually stay behind!

I’d say as long as you keep your Lent commitments, and don’t whoop it up too much, you should be OK. If you’re going some place where you can relax (e.g. beach), bring lots of spritual reading!

 

[puzzleannie]

Thanks. It just seem strange to me to be partying during a season of repentence.

not everyone “parties” on vacation. in any case, to comment on the choice of other persons borders on being judgemental. If you are asking for yourself, rely on your own prudential judgement.

 

[pnewton]

I will be taking a trip this Lent. I do not apply my lenten restrictions during this week, as I also do not apply them on St. Patrick’s day. Some people do not adhere to their lenten restrictions on Sunday’s. All such practices are subject to the judgement of the individual. There is nothing right or wrong about the issue.

I am not concerned that we will forget about the lenten season. When we travel, we always spend more time in prayer and will be listening to some excellent Catholic materials.