Shrove Tuesday always takes place the day before Ash Wednesday, which is the first day of the Christian season of Lent, where we begin the progression towards Easter. The expression Shrove Tuesday actually comes from the word “shrive,” which means to confess and receive absolution. Historically, it was the custom to confess sins before Lent. The season of Lent lasts for 40 days and takes place in memory of Jesus, who fasted for 40 days in the desert while avoiding the temptations of Satan. Lent is a time of repentance, sacrifice, reflection, and preparation for the coming of Easter.