The symbols used for Lent around our altar... The Crown of Thorns placed on Jesus’ head before the Crucifixion is said to have been made from stems of a Crown of Thorns (Euphorbia milii) plant, an evergreen with succulent branches. A Crown of Thorns bush is at the entrance of our Church building, on the left as you leave Church, behind a large Rhododendron. All parts of the plant are poisonous if ingested and its thorns are extremely sharp. The long Nails and Hammer represent those used to nail Jesus to the Cross. The Cross represents the wooden cross on which Jesus was crucified. This cross was made by Father Dan from dead branches of the Crown of Thorns bush. (This will be displayed the last week of Lent.)
Here is an excellent resource for Lenten reflection for families:
Related to this... use the annual Rice Bowl from Catholic Relief Services for donations to their worldwide work. Relacionado con esto... use el Plato de Arroz anual de Catholic Relief Services para donaciones a su obra mundial.