www.byzcath.org Forums General Discussions Town Hall Advice for New "Fasters"

What advice can people give to someone from a non-Eastern background who wants to observe the full Lenten fast, but who is surrounded by non-fasting family members?

Is it possible to observe the Fast and function in a highly competitive and intellectually demanding occupation?

Hi Tony!

The fast is never to be so severe that you cannot do your work. Also, the fasting is not just from food but also from other things that may lead us from the path of our Lenten journey.

Two suggestions:

1. Fast in a way that no one knows you are fasting. You mentioned that you are surrounded by non-fasting family members. If you are not the one who prepares the meals in your house, you can let your intentions be known to that person but then eat what is put before you.

2. Our Lenten journey has three pillars: prayer, fasting and almsgiving. Our attentiveness to each of these three should be relatively even. If we take one of these to extremes at the expense of the other two we should pause and reconsider.

That said, on the specific issue of fasting, be reasonable. Technically a large bag of potato chips for lunch meets the fasting requirements, but it's not healthy for you. In the Latin tradition one generally has two small and one normal meal each day. As best as is possible plan those meals to be healthy (lots of vegetables, enough protein, etc.).

And to others reading this, please remember that if you have specific health issues you are generally released from fasting.

John

Thank you.

In a very similar situation to TonyM. Considering full embrace of Byzantine Catholic practice, using Lenten fast to pray and consider it. More broadly I'm having trouble understanding the weekly observance of Great Lent. Should I be going to DL every Wednesday and Friday?

I am trying out a different fasting and abstinance routine this year. The Maronite Eastern Catholics abstain from food midnight until noon the next day. Water and medicine is allowed. Meals can be taken afterwards except fasting from meat and dairy. There is no fasting or abstaining on Saturdays or Sundays or feast days. This is helping with my morning and night prayers.

https://www.byzcath.org/forums/ubbthreads.php/topics/276716/Maronite%20Fasting%20For%20Lent

To this question and every question posted above:

First and foremost, seek the advise of your Spiritual Father and Confessor.

Regarding DL: It never hurts to attend as frequently as possible. Communion is a different matter; and, I reiterate: Be guided by your Spiritual Father. If you have been attending and Communing at weekday liturgies then , certainly continue during Great Lent if properly prepared.

I think it is needless to mention, when someone asks questions on a forum, it is more than likely they have NO spiritual direction available to them. Sheep are wandering aimlessly sadly.

Or, perhaps, a tenuous relationship which should be strengthened and deepened.