Lenten Fasting & Abstinence

The ancient custom was to abstain from eating meat all the 40 days of Lent. Some Eastern Christian Churches, such as the Armenian Apostolic Church continues this tradition. The more recent tradition in Western Christianity is to abstain from meat only each Friday of Lent. The custom is important as it unites us physically to the 40 days Jesus spent in the desert fasting in preparation for His Passion. As we are united physically it is important, we remain united to our suffering Lord spiritually in our hearts, minds, souls, and Lenten practice of personal Lenten sacrifice. 

 

Days of Abstinence from eating meat

• Ash Wednesday - February 22
• All Fridays of Lent - February 24th, March 3rd, March 10th, March 17th, March 24th, and March 31st
• Good Friday