Lent is the 40 days before Easter when Catholics prepare to commemorate Jesus’s Resurrection through prayer, penance, fasting and almsgiving.
Lenten Fasting Guidelines
Catholics ages 18-59 are required to fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday which involves eating one full meal and two smaller meals. The total amount of food consumed in the two smaller meals should not be equal to a full meal. Additionally, all Catholics over age 14 are expected to abstain from meat on Fridays during Lent.
Note: No eating between meals (solid food); liquids (like water, juice, tea, coffee) are permitted.
Excused: Those who are sick, elderly (60+), pregnant or nursing, manual laborers with serious work demands, or otherwise whose health would be jeopardized by fasting/abstinence are not obligated to follow these laws, though they are encouraged to undertake suitable acts of penance instead.
“Lent reminds us, therefore, that Christian life is a never-ending combat in which the “weapons” of prayer, fasting and penance are used. Fighting against evil, against every form of selfishness and hate, and dying to oneself to live in God is the ascetic journey that every disciple of Jesus is called to make with humility and patience, with generosity and perseverance.” (From Catholic Answers Insider Newsletter)
Purpose and Encouragement
The Church emphasizes that these practices are not merely rules but are meant to foster penance, spiritual renewal, and conversion of heart. Catholics are also encouraged to take on additional prayer, almsgiving, and personal penances throughout Lent beyond the minimum requirements.
