Fast and Abstinence For Lent

The Code of Canon Law reflects this view of penance. Canon 1249 urges all the Christian - faithful to offer special prayers, to perform works of piety and charity, and to mortify themselves by fulfilling their responsibilities more faithfully. Canon 1250 especially singles out Lent as a penitential season.

Fasting

Fasting prescribes that only one full meal a day be taken. Two smaller meals may be taken to maintain strength but these taken together should not equal another full meal. Fasting obliges from the 18" to the 59t' birthday.

Abstinence

Abstinence forbids the eating of meat. Abstinence obliges from the 1 4th birthday on.

Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are days of fast and abstinence from meat.

All Fridays of Lent are Days of Abstinence From Meat.

Obligation

There is a serious obligation to observe these penitential practices in a substantial way. Those whose work or whose health would be impaired are excused from fast and abstinence. Individual conscience should decide proper cause for excuse. A more serious excuse is required to excuse oneself from Ash Wednesday and Good Friday fast and abstinence.

Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church
Church of the Sacred Heart
26 Still Road
Monroe, NY 10950