As the school year continues, some students are balancing more than just schoolwork and extracurriculars. For those observing Lent or Ramadan, particularly Catholics and Muslims, respectively, these religious seasons are also a time of fasting, prayer and, most importantly, spiritual growth.
Observed by Catholics and other Christian denominations in the 40 days leading up to Easter, Lent is a time of renewal and sacrifice. Students often choose to participate as a way to grow closer to their faith. Whether giving something up or taking on a new commitment, the time encourages students to reflect on their habits and priorities. Each individual has their own goals during this time as the experience is both challenging and meaningful, prompting them to be more mindful in their daily lives. For many students, this also includes giving up meat on Fridays, which serves as a reminder of sacrifice and also encourages them to be more intentional about their choices. Choosing alternatives, such as pescatarian or vegetarian meals, is a small, but meaningful way to practice discipline and stay connected to the purpose of the Lenten season.
“I gave up spending money on things that I don’t need, and it’s been rewarding so far because I’ve been able to have a lot of money to save up for, … when Lent is over, to go out and do fun things with friends and family,” shared sophomore Madison Morris.
For Morris, observing Lent has become a meaningful personal commitment, rather than just a temporary change in habits. The experience has encouraged her to reflect on her daily choices and think more carefully about what she values. Through the process, she has found that small sacrifices can lead to a greater sense of purpose and appreciation during the Lenten season.
To recognize the importance of the season, Hallmarks and Action Board members lead bi-weekly reflections after lunch. During this time, students are encouraged to pause and think about their day as well as to consider how they have treated one another, fostering awareness, kindness and respect within the community.
For Muslims observing Ramadan, the month is dedicated to special prayers, reflections and traditions as well as fasting from dawn to sunset. It is one of the most sacred times of their year.
Fasting throughout the school day can present unique challenges, especially when balancing academics and extracurricular activities, while trying to build a deeper connection with Allah. Without food or water during the daylight hours, maintaining energy and focus requires discipline and resilience.
“We think of it [fasting] as like abstaining from food and water. But, in Islam, it’s more than that. It’s like fasting from bad habits, essentially,” explained senior Aleeya Baqai. “… Even though you’re angry, you’re hangry, you want food and water [and] you’re tired … you still want to be a good person. So, I try harder to restrict myself from backbiting, gossiping [and] just like saying unnecessarily bad things about people, thinking bad things …”
Despite these challenges, many students who observe Lent and Ramadan report that these experiences strengthen them. Many mention that these traditions help them slow down and reflect in ways that they normally would not during a busy school day.
It also provides an opportunity to deepen their understanding of their faith. Taking time to fast, pray or give something up can make them more aware of their daily habits and more appreciative of the things they often take for granted. For some, it also becomes a time to reconnect with cultural practices and family traditions that are important to them. During these times, it can be challenging to support religious students as they observe these traditions. Accommodations for fasting students and an understanding by classroom teachers can make a meaningful difference. By recognizing and respecting these religious practices, NDB fosters a culture of compassion and inclusivity. When staffulty acknowledge these observances, it helps students feel both seen and supported in their academic and religious or spiritual lives. Small gestures like adjusting classroom expectations, being mindful of fasting or simply asking students about their experiences go a long way in creating a more respectful and understanding school community.
“So, one of the things we do is we try to modify the lunch menu during Lent,” said Director of Mission and Ministry Amy Jobin. “… I know we try to have a bit less dessert, and then make sure that we have no meat, like no meat options on Fridays and Ash Wednesday.”
“[This modification is] not necessarily for Ramadan, because for Ramadan, you fast all throughout the day until sunset, and then you can only eat until sunrise,” added Jobin.
While balancing academic, extracurricular, and religious or spiritual commitments are not always easy, students observing Lent or Ramadan demonstrate dedication not only to their studies, but also to their faith. Through commitment, reflection and sacrifice, they continue to grow both academically and personally. These seasons encourage students to slow down and think more intentionally about their actions, values and relationships with others. For many, these experiences strengthen their discipline and sense of community, helping in their personal lives and their education.
