As Lent begins on Wednesday 13 February, Christian Aid has launched a new mobile app to help people pause and think about their lives and those of others around the world.
Using stunning photography and thought provoking daily reflections, the free ‘Count Your Blessings’ app aims to be a source of inspiration throughout the 40 days of Lent, says the British and Irish-based churches' global development agency.
Users will be able to get daily notifications, hear positive stories from Christian Aid projects and take actions in solidarity with the world’s poorest people.
Optional actions include giving 10p for every bedroom in the house, as a reminder of how fortunate many of us are to have shelter, and stopping to pray for people living in conflict.
Optimised for the retina display on iphones, ipads and HD Android devices, but available on non-HD devices as well, the app shows off some of the best images from around the world taken from the extensive Christian Aid photo archive.
Christian Aid’s Head of Communications, Steven Buckley, said he hoped the app would enrich people’s use of the Lent period.
"Lent isn’t just about giving up things we enjoy. It can be a time to be thoughtful, to pray and take positive actions which make a difference to our fellow human beings," he declared.
Users will be able to keep a running total of all their ‘give, act and pray’ actions throughout Lent while also seeing the global total from other users of the app, creating a sense of community.
Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, which this year falls today (13 February) and finishes on Holy Saturday (which this year falls on 30 March), the day before Easter. Lent is seen as a time of repentance (turning around and heading in a new direction) and self-examination ahead of Easter.
* The new Christian Aid Lent app is available for download from www.christianaid.org.uk/lent
* Buy Christian Aid charity gifts and support present aid online
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