How Did We Set the Time for Easter?

Q: Could you tell me what determines the date Easter Sunday falls on or when Lent begins?

A: The Council of Nicaea, in 325 A.D., determined that Easter should be celebrated the first Sunday after the first full moon of spring.

To determine the beginning of Lent, count back six Sundays before Easter. The Wednesday before the first of these Sundays is Ash Wednesday.