INTRODUCTION
Ash Wednesday, February 6, marks the beginning of Lent, a time of inner discipline for reflection and penance in preparation for the Resurrection of the Lord on Easter Sunday. The two elements which are especially characteristic of
Lent are the recalling of one's baptism (or the preparation for it), and
penance. During this time, the Liturgy points out the social consequences of
sin, an impresses on the minds of the faithful the
distinctive character of penance as a detestation of sin
because it is an offence against God.
Penance should be not only internal and individual but also external and social. The practice of penance is encouraged in all the faithful in ways suited to the present day, to where one lives and works, and to individual circumstances. The role of the
Church in these penitential practices should not be ignored, and it should be emphasized that the continued need to pray for one's soul and for the souls of sinners remains at the center of the Catholic Lenten experience.
RULES OF FASTING AND ABSTINENCE
For Lent, the following fasting and abstinence rules are observed:
Abstinence from meat is observed on Ash Wednesday, Good Friday, and all the Fridays of Lent by all Catholics 14 years of age and older. Poultry and meat resulting from the slaughter of mammals is considered "meat". Therefore, chicken, pork, beef, and lamb are considered "meat" and may not be eaten . Fish, eggs, shellfish, and cold-blooded animals are not considered "meat".
Fasting is observed on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday by all Catholics who are 18 years of age and older but not yet 59. Those bound by this rule may take only one full meal. Two smaller meals are permitted as necessary to maintain strength according to one's needs, but eating solid foods is not permitted.
(NOTE: Both fasting and abstinence apply only to those who will not be harmed in any manner by obedience to the dietary prescription. If you have low blood sugar, diabetes, or are taking treatments that require the intake of food or protein, you are fully absolved from any obligation to adhere to these rules.)
The Church also encourages daily attendance at Mass, self-imposed times of fasting, and generosity to local, national, and worldwide programs of sharing.
|
