As we stand at the threshold of the holy season of Lent, the Church invites us to slow down, reflect, and consciously return our hearts to God. Lent is not merely a period of giving things up; it is a sacred time of renewal, conversion, and deeper friendship with the Lord.
One of the traditional pillars of Lent is fasting and abstinence, practices deeply rooted in Sacred Scripture and the life of the Church. The Catholic Church teaches that these disciplines help us grow in self-control, free our hearts from excessive attachment to worldly things, and open us more fully to God and to the needs of others.
According to the Church’s law:
Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are days of fasting and abstinence.
Fasting means that adults aged 18 to 59 may take one full meal during the day, with two smaller meals that together do not equal a full meal. Eating between meals is not permitted, but liquids are allowed.
Abstinence from meat is required on Ash Wednesday, Good Friday, and all Fridays of Lent for those aged 14 and older.
Those who are ill, elderly, pregnant, or whose health would be harmed by fasting are excused.
However, the Church reminds us that fasting is not simply about food. As the Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches, fasting is meant to prepare us for prayer, to discipline our desires, and to help us grow in solidarity with the poor (CCC 2043). When we fast, we become more aware of our dependence on God and more sensitive to the hunger—both physical and spiritual—of others.
The true purpose of fasting, abstinence, and penance is conversion of heart. Without prayer and charity, these practices lose their meaning. As Saint Augustine wisely said, “Fasting cleanses the soul, raises the mind, subjects one’s flesh to the spirit.” Fasting creates space within us—space for God to speak and act.
Lent also calls us to prayer and sacrifice. Spending a few extra minutes each day with Scripture, participating in the Stations of the Cross, attending weekday Mass when possible, or performing small acts of kindness and generosity can make this season deeply fruitful. Even simple sacrifices, offered with love, become powerful when united to Christ.
As your pastor, I encourage each of you to take Lent seriously—but not fearfully. Lent is a gift. It is God gently inviting us back, again and again, into his mercy. Let us remain close to the Lord through prayer, fasting, sacrifice, and penance, trusting that he will renew our hearts.
May this Lenten season be for you and your families a time of grace, healing, and spiritual growth, leading us with hope and joy to the celebration of Easter.
Wishing you all a blessed and meaningful Lent.
