Fasting and Abstinence

"Is fasting still required?"

3 Scripture passages2 objections answered2 Church Father quotes

The Short Answer

Fasting and abstinence are ancient Christian practices that discipline the body, express repentance, and open us to God's grace. They are required on certain days.

Quick Overview

Fasting is spiritual exercise. Just like physical training strengthens your body, fasting strengthens your will and opens your heart to God. It's not about earning God's favor—it's about making space for Him by saying no to yourself.

Biblical Evidence

What the Scriptures say

Matthew 6:16-18

"When you fast... anoint thy head, and wash thy face... and thy Father, who seeth in secret, will repay thee."

Why This Matters

Jesus says 'when you fast'—not 'if.' He assumes His followers will fast.

Matthew 9:15

"The days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then they shall fast."

Why This Matters

Jesus predicts His disciples will fast after He leaves—a prophecy for the Church age.

Acts 13:2-3

"As they were ministering to the Lord, and fasting, the Holy Ghost said to them: Separate me Saul and Barnabas."

Why This Matters

The early Church fasted as part of worship. The Spirit spoke during their fast.

What the Church Teaches

Official Catholic doctrine

The Church requires fasting (reducing food) on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, and abstinence from meat on Fridays during Lent. These disciplines unite us to Christ's passion (CCC 1434-1438).

Common Objections

Questions answered

Early Church Fathers

What the first Christians believed

Didache

c. 70 AD

"Let your fasts not be with the hypocrites, for they fast on Mondays and Thursdays, but fast on Wednesdays and Fridays."

— Didache, 8:1

Tertullian

c. 200 AD

"We practice fasting; we do not abstain from marriage; we are continent."

— On Prayer, 18

Justification

Relics

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