Hey there,
Here we are in the second full week of Lent with two abstinence days and one fasting day behind us.
Or was it two fasting days and one abstinence day?
Do you know the difference … and why we even do it anyway?
Don’t eat meat.
Eat limited meals.
Age exceptions.
There’s a lot to remember.
It’s not just us who get confused. While researching articles for this issue, I found some websites that misused the terms.
Now’s a great time to make sure we understand.
So this week’s issue of Genuflect looks at the Catholic church’s definition of fasting and abstinence, who’s expected to participate and who’s exempted, why we should participate and how to get the most out of our efforts … and what to do if we forget.
So you’ll be ready when Friday rolls around … and get closer to the Lord through abstinence and fasting this Lent.
Keep Believing-
Katy Barrilleaux
Founding Editor, Genuflect
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Fasting and Abstinence at Lent: A CNA Explainer
Most Catholics, even those who don’t often go to Mass, know that Lent is a time for Friday Fish Fries and “giving something up.” But many Catholics wonder what exactly the Church requires during Lent, and why. Here are a few points that might help you have a great Lent this year.
A 2nd-century Pope Gave us the Custom of Lenten Fasting
But we can’t deny that the regulations of 2019 are a piece of cake, even compared to just a few decades ago. Here’s how fasting has changed over the years.
Why Fasting was Previously Forbidden on Thursdays in the Catholic Church
In the Catholic Church various minor traditions have come and gone over the years. One tradition that influenced the way Catholics approached fasting (and the Lenten season) was a biblical association with Thursdays.
What’s the Point of Fasting During Lent?
Fr. Mike Schmitz reminds us that God cares about us so much he is willing to notice our sacrifices—no matter how meager they may seem—and he wants us to use those sacrifices to draw closer to him.
Christians Need to Recover Fasting: Reorientation
Deacon David Stavarzi writes: I fear there exists a major misunderstanding about what the Church believes about the purpose of fasting. Fasting is not just a way that we Christians deprive ourselves good things in order to needlessly suffer.
Fasting: What Your Prayer Life is Missing
If anything, fasting is challenging. It’s no small feat to give up one’s bed for Lent and to sleep on the floor, and fasting from social media for a few days is difficult. However, the challenge itself is not the reason why we fast. Here’s why we do it.
The Pregnant, Postpartum, and Breastfeeding Woman’s Guide to Fasting During Lent
The Church cares about your health and wants you to prioritize it. Here’s what you need to know.
No Food, Only Beer: Fasting Like a 17th-century Monk
In our time, some of the most popular luxuries to give up for Lent include social media, sweets, electronic devices, and caffeine. Some of the more die-hard types may decide to keep the Friday abstinence from meat throughout the entire season. The monks of the 17th century, however, had a much more hardcore approach: a liquid diet.
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