Lenten Sacrifices Mirror Christ’s Fast

The practice of giving up a bad habit for Lent is an ancient observance that dates back to the 4th century, according to biblical scholars.

Like the fast of Ramadan in Islam or Yom Kippur in Judaism, Lent--a 10-week season that begins next week with Ash Wednesday--is a time for Christians to enter a stretch of contemplative penance, which leads up to the Easter holiday of rebirth. The asceticism symbolizes Christ’s suffering during a 40-day fast in the desert.

Many Orange County churches are having special services Wednesday to observe Lent. Here’s a sampling:

* Red Hill Lutheran Church has services at noon and 7 p.m. at 13200 Red Hill Ave., Tustin. Call (714) 544-3131 for information.

* St. Alban’s Church in Brea is having an evening service at 9 p.m. at 300 E. Imperial Highway. Call (714) 671-4975 for information.

* St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church in Corona del Mar will have services at 7 a.m., noon and 7:30 p.m. at 3233 Pacific View Drive. Call (949) 644-0463.

* St. Andrew’s By-the-Sea United Methodist Church will have an evening service at 7 p.m., 2001 Calle Frontera in San Clemente. For information about Bible study during the Lenten season, call the office at (949)492-2537.

* To reflect on death before life, the Center for Spiritual Development in Orange is having a one-day conference called “Lent: Springtime for the Soul” from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at 434 S. Batavia St. Information: (714) 744-3175, Ext. 4400.