Lent is the most penitential season of the liturgical year. Your church's appearance should reflect this — violet vestments, stripped altars, and a general sense of solemnity. Here's your complete checklist.
Vestments
The color for Lent is violet. You'll need violet chasubles, stoles, and dalmatics for the entire season (Ash Wednesday through Holy Thursday). On the Fourth Sunday (Laetare Sunday), rose may be worn. On Good Friday, the color is red.
Church Decorations
During Lent, flowers are forbidden (GIRM 305). Remove all floral arrangements from the sanctuary and altar. Keep decorations minimal and somber. The altar cloth should be plain. On Laetare Sunday, a modest floral arrangement is permitted.
Veiling of Crosses and Images
From the Fifth Sunday of Lent (Passion Sunday) until the Easter Vigil, crosses and images in the church may be veiled in violet cloth. This is an ancient tradition that heightens the sense of anticipation for Easter.
Stations of the Cross
Make sure your Stations of the Cross are in good condition and prominently displayed. Plan the schedule for Friday evening Stations and recruit leaders and readers in advance.
What I Recommend
Start preparing at least two weeks before Ash Wednesday. Check your violet vestments, remove flowers, prepare the ashes, and plan the Stations of the Cross. Lent is a marathon, not a sprint — preparation makes it manageable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I have to veil the crosses and images?
A: Veiling is permitted but not required. Many parishes choose to veil, especially in the Extraordinary Form. In the Ordinary Form, it's optional. Check with your pastor and diocesan guidelines.
Conclusion
Lent is a season of stripping away — less decoration, less music, less celebration — so that Easter can burst forth with greater joy. Prepare your church for this holy austerity, and the Resurrection will shine all the brighter.
Browse our Lenten collection — violet vestments, veils, and Stations of the Cross sets.