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Guidelines for Fasting and Abstinence
The following is provided for parishes to publish in their bulletin to assist parishioners in the Lenten practices.
During the season of Lent, the Church urges the faithful to reflect a spirit of penance in their daily lives through performing acts of fast and abstinence and unite themselves to Christ and one another in prayer and voluntary sacrifice so that we might prepare ourselves to rejoice fully in the joy of the Resurrection.
Lent begins on Ash Wednesday and ends on the evening of Holy Thursday.
Abstinence — Abstinence forbids the eating of meat or poultry. Catholics over 14 years of age are bound to the obligation of abstinence. Abstinence is to be observed on Ash Wednesday (February 18) and on all Fridays of Lent. This obligation does not prohibit the eating of eggs, milk products or condiments of any kind, even though made from animal fat.
Fasting — Catholics between the ages of 18 and 59 are bound to the obligation of fasting. Ash Wednesday (February 18) and Good Friday (April 3) are the days of fasting. On these days, only one full meal is allowed. Two other meatless meals, sufficient to maintain strength, may be taken according to each one’s needs, but together they should not equal another full meal. Eating between meals is not permitted, but liquids, including milk and fruit juices are allowed.
Easter Duty—Catholics who have been admitted to the Sacraments of Penance and Eucharist are obliged to receive Holy Communion and Confession at least once a year between the First Sunday of Lent (February 18) and Holy Trinity Sunday (May 26). Three Wednesdays in Lent (March 11, March 18, and March 25) have been designated as the Archdiocesan “Nights for Confession.” On these dates, the Sacrament of Penance is to be available in all churches from 5:00 p.m – 6:30 p.m.
Liturgical Guidelines for Lent, Easter Triduum and Easter
As usual the Office of Worship has provided the liturgical guidelines for Lent, the Easter Triduum, and Easter from the Office of Worship. Please review them carefully. The document can be found here: https://files.ecatholic.com/16596/documents/2026/2/LENTANDEASTERGUIDELINES%202026.pdf?t=1770664881000 |
