The annual Lenten season is the fitting time to climb the holy mountain of Easter. The Lenten season has a double character, namely to prepare both the catechumens and faithful to celebrate the paschal mystery. The catechumens by catechesis are prepared for the celebration of the sacraments of initiation; the faithful prepare themselves by penance for the renewal of their baptismal promises.

Also, Lent is a period of special penitential observance. Following the instructions of the Holy See, the Bishops of the United States have declared that the obligation to fast and to abstain from meat still binds on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. In this matter, the faithful enjoy the freedom in conscience to excuse themselves but, as the Bishops state, “no Catholic Christian will lightly excuse himself from so hallowed an obligation” on these days. In addition, the tradition of abstinence from meat on the other Fridays of Lent is preserved. Again, the Bishops express their confidence that "no Catholic Christian will lightly hold himself excused from this penitential practice." (Bishops' Statement)

ASH WEDNESDAY, February 14, 2024, and GOOD FRIDAY, March 29, 2024 are days of fast and abstinence. FRIDAYS OF LENT are also days of abstinence. Fasting, almsgiving, and prayer are the three traditional disciplines of Lent. The faithful and catechumens should undertake these practices seriously in a spirit of penance and of preparation for baptism or of renewal of baptism at Easter.

Abstinence

Abstinence is observed by all 14 years of age and older. On days of abstinence, no meat is allowed. Note that when health or ability to work would be seriously affected, the law does not oblige. When in doubt concerning fast and abstinence, the parish priest should be consulted.

Fast

Fasting is to be observed by all 18 years of age and older, who have not yet celebrated their 59th birthday. On a fast day, one full meal is allowed. Two other 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 juices, are allowed.

Sacrificial Offerings

Almsgiving is one of the three Lenten disciplines. We present an opportunity for sacrificial offerings by distributing Operation Rice Bowl.