Every Friday of the year, Catholics are required to perform some act of penance to unite themselves with the sufferings of Christ, Who died for us on Friday. This activity can be any act of denial, mercy, generosity or charity.
FOR THE SEASON OF LENT, THE FOLLOWING IS ALSO REQUIRED:
- Everyone 14 years of age or older is bound to abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday, all the Fridays of Lent and Good Friday.
- Everyone 18 or older, and under 59 years of age, is bound to fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday.
- On Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, only one full meatless meal is allowed. Two other meatless meals, sufficient to maintain strength, may be taken according to each one’s needs, but together they should not equal another full meal. Eating between meals is not permitted. When health or ability to work would be seriously affected, the law does not oblige. Ordinary drinks are allowed (no milkshakes).
- Catholics should not lightly excuse themselves from these prescribed minimal penitential practices.