Lent
In the Season of Lent, we are asked to devote ourselves to the spiritual and corporal works of mercy that "remind us that faith finds expression in concrete everyday actions meant to help our neighbors in body and spirit."
"Lent is a favourable season for opening the doors to all those in need and recognizing in them the face of Christ."-- Pope Francis, Message for Lent 2017. . .
Take inspiration for your Lenten journey from prayer and to the reading of Scripture, to fasting and to giving alms. The fasting that all do together on Fridays is but a sign of the daily Lenten discipline of individuals and households: fasting for certain periods of time, fasting from certain foods, but also fasting from other things and activities. Likewise, the giving of alms is some effort to share this world equally--not only through the distribution of money, but through the sharing of our time and talents.
In Lent, the baptized are called to renew their baptismal commitment as others prepare to be baptized through the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, a period of learning and discernment for individuals who have declared their desire to become Catholics.
The key to fruitful observance of these practices is to recognize their link to baptismal renewal. We are called not just to abstain from sin during Lent, but to true conversion of our hearts and minds as followers of Christ. We recall those waters in which we were baptized into Christ's death, died to sin and evil, and began new life in Christ.
Catholics are also encouraged to make going to the Sacrament of Reconciliation a significant part of their spiritual lives during Lent.
Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are obligatory days of universal fast and abstinence. Fasting is obligatory for all from ages 18 to the completion of their 59th birthday. Fasting allows a person to eat one full meal. Two smaller meals may be taken, not to equal one full meal. Abstinence (from meat) is obligatory for all persons 14 years and older. Every Friday in Lent is an obligatory day of abstinence.
Other forms of “fasting,” especially regarding alcoholic drink, needless television, video games, internet use and social entertainment – are of true spiritual value and are strongly encouraged.
In order to deepen one’s love for Christ, Catholics are urged to spend time in spiritual reading (especially Sacred Scripture), to study the catechism, to participate in devotions offered by the parish, and to pray more fervently. The faithful are encouraged to pray the rosary, to make private visits to the Blessed Sacrament, and to pray for vocations.
More information about Fast and Abstinence.