Dear Salesian Family,

During the holy season of Lent, fasting is one of the powerful traditional practices passed down through the years as a means of penance. Somehow, it has been somewhat misunderstood and has become quite challenging. Consequently, we tend to practice it poorly or not at all.

Some of us have had the experience of fasting before a medical procedure. Some, because our parents have brought us up practicing the Lenten fast of no meat on Fridays.

For us Catholics, fasting is intentionally withholding something we would normally take. The purpose is to create a space in our lives allowing us to become more aware of Jesus' presence and to follow in His footsteps. Jesus spent forty days in prayer and fasting in the desert. He certainly gave us an example of self-discipline.

What we decide to fast from will take some thought and prayer. We can select a particular food, or drink, some type of media, a specific comfort or habit… or we may decide to chose one of the following very practical suggestions from our Holy Father, Pope Francis.

Do You Want to Fast This Lent?

In the words of Pope Francis