The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that the precepts of the Church are “positive laws decreed by the pastoral authorities…meant to guarantee to the faithful the indispensable minimum in the spirit of prayer and moral effort, in the growth in love of God and neighbor.” (CCC, 2041) One of the precepts of the Church is to “observe the prescribed days of fasting and abstinence.” (CCC, 2043) This precept is intended primarily to help us prepare ourselves spiritually for certain special solemnities such as Easter. It is also intended to help us grow in the virtues self-discipline, moderation, temperance, self-control, and so on, that are so important in our spiritual journey.

Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are obligatory days of fasting and abstinence for Catholics. In addition, Fridays during Lent are obligatory days of abstinence. The norms on fasting are obligatory for Roman Catholics from age 18 until age 59. When fasting, a person is permitted to eat one full meal, as well as two smaller meals that together are not equal to a full meal.  In keeping with the penitential character of Friday, the day Christ suffered and died for our sins, Roman Catholics from age 14 onwards are asked to refrain from eating meet on Fridays of Lent.

The Precepts of the Church establish minimum standards. We may choose to fast more frequently and with greater intensity, not only for its possible physical benefits—such as weight loss, blood sugar control, and protection against medical conditions like cancer and neurodegenerative disorders—but also for the spiritual fruits that fasting may produce in those who seek to grow in union with Christ. When combined with prayer, fasting becomes a powerful weapon against temptations and the evil spirits. Jesus Himself claimed that that there are certain spirits that can only be cast out through prayer and fasting. (Matthew 17:21) Fasting is often recommended by spiritual directors for people struggling with the spirits of addiction and lust.

May our fasting this season of Lent help us to break free from any unhealthy attachment or habit that we may be struggling with, and may it draw us closer to Christ.

Lenten blessings,

Fr. Robain