FASTING AND ABSTINENCE

As we begin the Lenten season with Ash Wednesday, a time of penance,

repentance and conversion, the Church assists us with certain

guidelines. The following regulations are in effect in the Diocese of

Tulsa:

•Ash Wednesday and all Fridays of Lent are penitential days during

Lent and are to be observed under obligation by all Catholics.

•The law of abstinence (no meat) is observed every Friday during

Lent. The law of abstinence from meat applies to all persons

who have completed their 14th year of age. However, it is

highly recommended that children from 7 to 14 years of age

also follow the law of abstinence.

•The law of fast (one full meal a day) and abstinence is to be observed

on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. The law of fasting

permits only one full meal a day but it does allow for the

taking of some food in the morning and a second light meal at

noon or in the evening, if preferred. The law of fast binds those

persons who have completed their 18th year & continues until

they have completed their 59th year.

Though not required by the laws of Lenten observance, it is recommended that during Lent all Catholics eat meat only once a day at the main meal, apart from Fridays when they abstain completely.

All are urged to attend weekday Mass and the Sacrament of Reconciliation.