Today marks the second to last day that Christians have gone without some of their favorite treats. Thursday, referred to as Holy Thursday, was the last day of Lent.

Lent is a period, which began on Feb. 25 and lasts until Easter Sunday, of fasting practiced by Christians. The practice is generally used as a time for spiritual preparation. It is believed that the modern Lenten tradition began around the year 325 A.D.

Sophomore communications major Amber Harris is one student who is counting down the days.

“I gave up pop for Lent, and that was a staple of my beverage diet,” Harris said. “It has been really hard, but I have been able to stick with it.”

Today begins the celebration of Triduum, the last three days of Jesus’ life, said Maria Alderson, director of Adult Education at the Newman Catholic Center.

“The Triduum ends on Easter Sunday with the celebration of the Resurrection,” Alderson said. “The fasting of the Lenten time ends that day.”

Meat is also given up during Lent, creating traditional Friday Fish Fry events throughout America. Lent is a time of reflection for Christians as they turn their focuses from their usual daily lives to God, said Deacon James Dombeck from the Newman Catholic Center.

“During Lent, Christians fast, pray more and focus on giving to the less fortunate. These are Christian principles, but we focus on them during this time,” Dombeck said. “These sacrifices signify giving up Earthly things that we take for granted and allowing God to fill that space.”

Brittany Zabel, sophomore elementary education major, is one student who was not able to maintain her fast.

“I had planned to give up bakery sweets,” Zabel said. “I broke the first day and didn’t try to keep up.”

Harris has struggled with her fasting but has been able to stick with it.

“I usually fail at things like New Year’s Resolutions, but I feel more committed to the things I give up for Lent,” Harris said. “A lot of people look forward to Easter baskets full of chocolate, but I am

hoping for a can of Pepsi.”