Fasting And Abstinence

Abstinence. All persons, 14 years and older, are obliged to abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday and all Fridays of Lent.

Fasting. Everyone from ages 18 to 59 is obliged to fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. Voluntary fasting on other weekdays of Lent, especially on Wednesdays and Fridays, is highly recommended. Fasting is generally understood to mean that one full meal may be eaten. Two other small meals (collations) may be eaten, but together they should not equal a full meal. Eating between meals is not permitted.

Please note that, traditionally, those who reasonably could not fast on the appointed days, especially the sick, those engaged in heavy labor for their wages, and pregnant women, were always excused from fasting. Those who are excused from fasting may find other ways to practice generosity during Lent, for example, not snacking between meals, eating certain less desirable foods during meals, limiting or even excluding sweets and alcohol.

Additionally, it is good for all to prayerfully reflect on what attachments may have crept in over the prior year and use the Lenten season to destroy their hold over the soul. Social media, the news, electronic media and entertainment,

The more traditional Lent involved fasting (i.e. one meal and no more than two small collations) every day (except for Sundays), and abstaining from meat during the entirety of the Lenten season. Parishioners who are in good health should consider this, mindful, however, that it is not in any way binding in law or in conscience. Those of doubtful health should consult a medical professional before engaging in long term fasting.