Observance of Lenten Regulations

Observance of Lenten Regulations

The Holy Season of Lent is observed this year from Ash Wednesday (March 2) until Holy Thursday (April 14). The Bishops of the United States have prescribed that this season be marked by more intense prayer, works of charity, and penance. Among these are the practices of fasting and abstinence:

• Fasting—an obligation for those between the ages of 18 and 59. It involves taking only one full meal. Two small meals may be taken but they should not equal one full meal. One should not eat between these ‘meals.’ Drinking beverages is allowed.
• Abstinence is an obligation of those from the age of 14. It means that all meals should be meatless. Eggs, milk, and condiments, even if made from animal fat, are permitted.
• Ash Wednesday & Good Friday are days of both fasting & abstinence.
• Fridays of Lent are days of abstinence.

No dispensations of these regulations are granted on Ash Wednesday & Good Friday but Canon Law provides for certain exceptions for reasons of health:

• Physical or mental illnesses, especially chronic illness such as diabetes.
• Women who are pregnant or nursing.

The obligation to observe these penitential days is a serious one. Failure to observe one penitential day in itself is not considered serious but failure to observe any such days or a substantial number of days must be considered serious.

Planning meals for any family celebrations should take into account the penitential nature of this holy season.

The Easter Duty (obligation and privilege of receiving the Eucharist at least once a year) should be fulfilled sometime from the 1st Sunday of Lent (March 5-6) to Trinity Sunday (June 12). This duty may be fulfilled at another time for a just cause. Those conscious of serious sin, should avail themselves of the Sacrament of Penance before receiving Holy Communion.