Lenten Guidelines for Fast and Abstinence

Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are the most important penitential days of the liturgical year. They are both days of fast and abstinence. The rule of fasting states that only one full meal a day can be taken. Two small meals, “sufficient to maintain strength”, are allowed, but together should not equal another full meal. Eating between meals breaks the fast, but drinking liquids does not. The rule of fasting obliges all Catholics from 18 to 59. Abstinence refers to the eating of meat. The common estimation of the community is used to determine what falls under the category of meat. The rule of abstinence binds all Catholics 14 years or older. The substantial observance of the laws of fast and abstinence is a serious obligation. · Self-imposed fasting on the other weekdays of Lent is recommended. Abstinence on all Fridays of the year is also highly recommended. Parents and teachers should see to it that, even those who are not bound by the laws of fast and abstinence because of age, are to be brought up in an atmosphere that is conducive to a sense of penance.