Guidelines for Fast and Abstinence
Soon we will be amidst the Season of Lent.
Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are days of fast and abstinence. All Fridays during Lent are days of abstinence.
Fasting – is to be observed by all Catholics who are 18 years of age or older and who have not celebrated their 59th birthday yet. On days of fasting one full meal is allowed. Two smaller meals, sufficient to maintain strength may be eaten (according to each person’s needs), but together these two meals should not equal another full meal. Liquids (such as milk and juices) are allowed throughout the day, but eating between meals is not permitted.
Abstinence – is to be observed by all Catholics who are 14 years of age or older. On days of abstinence meat is not allowed.
Note: When health issues or the ability to work might be seriously affected, the law does not apply. If in doubt, consult your parish priest with questions and concerns regarding the rules for fast and abstinence.
The three traditional disciplines of Lent are fasting, almsgiving and prayer. All faithful Catholics and catechumens undertake these practices in the spirit of penance and to prepare for baptism or the renewal of baptism at Easter.
Articles and Resources to Enrich Your Lenten Journey
Journey Through Lent - As we travel through this penitential season, some Lenten reflections from your editor.
Ash Wednesday - Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent. The Season of Lent is a season of penance, reflection and fasting. Learn why we use ashes on this first day of Lent.
Prayer for the Lenten Season - Prayer is an important part of the Lenten Season. Is your prayer life where you want it to be? Read on for ways to strengthen your daily prayer; plus a prayer I wrote to enrich our Lenten journey.
Parish Missions - Parish Missions, sometimes called parish retreats, are valuable tools in renewing our spiritual life and are often offered during the Lenten season.
Lent and Easter Wisdom from Pope John Paul II -- Buy from Amazon
Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are days of fast and abstinence. All Fridays during Lent are days of abstinence.
Fasting – is to be observed by all Catholics who are 18 years of age or older and who have not celebrated their 59th birthday yet. On days of fasting one full meal is allowed. Two smaller meals, sufficient to maintain strength may be eaten (according to each person’s needs), but together these two meals should not equal another full meal. Liquids (such as milk and juices) are allowed throughout the day, but eating between meals is not permitted.Abstinence – is to be observed by all Catholics who are 14 years of age or older. On days of abstinence meat is not allowed.
Note: When health issues or the ability to work might be seriously affected, the law does not apply. If in doubt, consult your parish priest with questions and concerns regarding the rules for fast and abstinence.
The three traditional disciplines of Lent are fasting, almsgiving and prayer. All faithful Catholics and catechumens undertake these practices in the spirit of penance and to prepare for baptism or the renewal of baptism at Easter.
Articles and Resources to Enrich Your Lenten Journey
Journey Through Lent - As we travel through this penitential season, some Lenten reflections from your editor.
Ash Wednesday - Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent. The Season of Lent is a season of penance, reflection and fasting. Learn why we use ashes on this first day of Lent.
Prayer for the Lenten Season - Prayer is an important part of the Lenten Season. Is your prayer life where you want it to be? Read on for ways to strengthen your daily prayer; plus a prayer I wrote to enrich our Lenten journey.
Parish Missions - Parish Missions, sometimes called parish retreats, are valuable tools in renewing our spiritual life and are often offered during the Lenten season.
Lent and Easter Wisdom from Pope John Paul II -- Buy from Amazon
Lent and Easter Wisdom From St. Francis and St. Clare of Assisi -- Buy from Amazon
Peace in Christ,
© Melissa Knoblett-Aman
You Should Also Read:
Journey Through Lent
Ash Wednesday
Prayer for the Lenten Season
Related Articles
Editor's Picks Articles
Top Ten Articles
Previous Features
Site Map
Content copyright © 2023 by Melissa Knoblett-Aman. All rights reserved.
This content was written by Melissa Knoblett-Aman. If you wish to use this content in any manner, you need written permission. Contact Melissa Knoblett-Aman for details.
