and why?
2007-05-24 14:18:58 · 7 answers · asked by Knight of Malta 3 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
Yes, each Friday and then throughout Lent. The Church follows the example of Jesus, who also fasted.
In Matthew 6:16-18 Jesus gives instructions on how to fast. Jesus says, "Do not look dismal like the hypocrites, but look clean and refreshed. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by men but by your Father who is in secret..."
The fact that Jesus says "when you fast" means He is assuming we will. So the practice does not die with the Apostles.
Fasting has many spiritual benefits:
1. Spiritual things are more important than physical things
2. We learn to deny ourselves pleasures, even in spite of discomfort
3. We express humility before God by adopting a humble posture, recognizing our dependence on him
2007-05-24 14:24:51 · answer #1 · answered by Veritas 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
We are required to fast (abstain from food), unless prevented by health reasons, for one hour before receiving the Eucharist, (Latin or Western ) Rite, and required to "partial fast" on Ash Wednesday and Fridays in Lent -- that is, eat only one full meal and up to two smaller food intakes during the day.
Quite apart from that, I fast (abstain from food altogether) when I can, in order to support my prayers for any important issue, as we are told this unites us to Christ's sacrifice and thus gives our prayers power with God.
2007-05-24 17:54:58 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
Some do.
If it was good enough for Christ, why should his followers not follow his example?
Fasting is a method to bring the spirit and body into closer cooperation. Fasting enables the body to quiet itself and promotes better meditation. It is a spiritual exercise in many traditions. It seems to work.
2007-05-24 14:27:00 · answer #3 · answered by Deirdre H 7 · 3⤊ 0⤋
yes. On certain days of the year, like Ash Wed., I forgo all major meals. Since I am boarderline diabetic, I have to eat, but none of what I consume in a day would add up to a meal. I fast because it's a small sacrifice I can make. It's my way of saying that my God is important to me.
2007-05-24 14:26:15 · answer #4 · answered by sister steph 6 · 3⤊ 0⤋
We all fast before receiving the Eucharist.
In Christ
Fr. Joseph
2007-05-24 14:30:13 · answer #5 · answered by cristoiglesia 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Yes, I do. Health and religious reasons. Sometimes I give up something like watching TV. Some people also call that a fast.
Peace and blessings!
2007-05-24 14:24:42 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 3⤊ 0⤋
I do. It is a means of setting aside all but an important matter to get directly down to business, and it requires loving devotion.
2007-05-24 14:23:01 · answer #7 · answered by Travis J 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋