Now that Mardi Gras is over, observant Christians are beginning the somber season of Lent.
Mardi Gras may get rowdy, but it can also amplify the sense of sacrifice that comes with Lent, says theologian and Loyola Professor Tom Ryan.
"Mardi Gras helps, kind of amps up the importance of Lent, and helps us think about the importance of repentance in, I think, a more powerful way," said Ryan.
Ryan says the practice of giving up something for Lent, whether it is abstinence from eating meat or something else, is also a means of spiritual self improvement.
"The point of Lent is not simply abstinence. Abstinence is a means to an end, and that end is changing our lives, repentance, turning around, working to be a better person on our own and in relationship with other people," he said.
Professor Ryan says it gives a person a chance to think about what in their lives must change.