Today marks the beginning of the Lenten Season. Lent is the 40 days leading up to Easter. Sundays aren’t counted in the 40 days. This year lent begins on Wednesday March 9th and ends on April 23rd.
Helleborus Orientalis is the botanical name of the very popular, early blooming shade perennial more commonly known as the Lenten Rose. Lenten Roses grow hardy around the world in temperate zones 4-9. In the English speaking world they are known as the Lenten Rose but are not roses at all. They are actually of the Butter Cup family. Their flowers bloom during the Easter celebration of Lent.
Hebrews 12: 1-2 (ESV)
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
Have a wonderful Wednesday everyone!
The Happy Wonderer ~ ellen b. 
What great verses to start the season of lent. BTW, I just ordered some lenten roses last night — Helleborus argutifolius is supposed to do well in my zone 9+.
Beautiful! Thanks for the encouraging verses, Ellen!
Have a blessed day.
Beautiful verses to go with beautiful flowers!
What a gorgeous flower! Wonderfully encouraging verse. Good day to you friend!
Beautiful Lenton Rose! And thanks for the reminder …40 days until Easter.
Thank you for sharing this beautiful flower with us. Have never seen or even heard of the Lenten Rose! Enjoyed your St. Patrick’s tablescape and the trip to the capitol post. Very lovely!
they are beautiful!