The History of Pre-Lent in the Church and the Lutheran Tradition

As the season of Lent approaches, many may be surprised to learn that the Church historically observed a preparatory period known as Pre-Lent. This time, often called Gesimatide, consists of the three Sundays before Ash Wednesday: Septuagesima, Sexagesima, and Quinquagesima. Though largely forgotten in modern practice, Pre-Lent played a vital role in the Church’s liturgical rhythm, especially within Lutheranism.

The Origins of Pre-Lent

Pre-Lent developed in the early centuries of Christianity as a way to ease the faithful into the rigorous discipline of Lent. The Church Fathers recognized that a sudden transition into 40 days of fasting and repentance was difficult, so this three-week period served as a gradual preparation for the coming penitential season. The names of the Sundays—derived from Latin—roughly indicate their distance from Easter (70, 60, and 50 days away, respectively).

During this time, the Church’s liturgy took on a somber tone, with the Gloria omitted, the Alleluia silenced, and readings focused on themes of grace, struggle, and perseverance.

Pre-Lent in the Lutheran Church

The Lutheran Reformers retained Pre-Lent in their church year, recognizing its deep biblical and pastoral value. The readings for these Sundays, following the historic one-year lectionary, highlight key themes:

• Septuagesima (Matthew 20:1–16) – The Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard, emphasizing God’s gracerather than human merit.
• Sexagesima (Luke 8:4–15) – The Parable of the Sower, reminding us that God’s Word takes root in prepared hearts.
• Quinquagesima (Luke 18:31–43) – Jesus’ prediction of His Passion and the healing of the blind man, showing that faith clings to Christ alone.

Though Pre-Lent faded from many Lutheran calendars in the 20th century, confessional Lutheran churches have preserved this season as an important way to focus on repentance and God’s mercy before the full observance of Lent begins.

The Value of Pre-Lent Today

In a world where Lent can feel like an abrupt shift, Pre-Lent offers a bridge from Epiphany’s joy to Lent’s solemnity. It reminds us that preparing for Christ’s Passion is not just about external observances but a renewal of the heart and mind in God’s grace.

For those unfamiliar with Pre-Lent, it is a rich and meaningful tradition worth rediscovering—a time to begin reflecting on our need for Christ’s mercy and the great redemption won for us on the cross.