Lenten Fasting and Abstinence

Days of Fasting and Abstinence: Ash Wednesday and Good Friday.

Days of Abstinence Only: All Fridays in Lent.

What Are the Fasting Requirements? On days of fast, only one full meal may be eaten. Two other meals, sufficient to maintain strength, may be taken according to one’s needs. Together, these two smaller meals should not equal another full meal. Eating between meals is not permitted, but liquids, including milk and fruit juice, are allowed. All persons from 18 through 59 years of age are required to fast.

What Are the Abstinence Requirements? On days of abstinence, no meat or meat products may be eaten. All persons 14 and older are required to observe abstinence.

Note: When health or ability to work would be seriously affected, the law does not oblige. If a person is in doubt concerning fast and abstinence rules, he or she should consult a priest or confessor.