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WHY DO CATHOLICS...? ARCHIVE
The following question was answered as a part of our Why Do Catholics...? series. If you would like to submit a question for our Why Do Catholics...? series, email faithform@abecket.org or leave your question in the Faith Formation box in the Parish Office.

Why do Catholics still fast sometimes? I thought it was done away with.

Christ did not actually tell us to fast, but imply we naturally would, “When you fast…” The Book of Acts records believers fasting before they made important decisions (Acts 13:4; 14:23). Fasting and prayer are often linked together (Luke 2:37; 5:33). The Church, prior to Vatican II, did impose it for the good that can come from it, but it really did not “do away” with it. It is no longer imposed it but still encouraged. During Lent, though, fasting is still part of the Lenten practices.

Too often, the focus of fasting is on abstaining from food. However, the purpose of fasting is to take our eyes off the things of this world and instead focus on God. Fasting is a way to demonstrate to God and to ourselves that we are serious about our relationship with Him. Although fasting in Scripture is almost always a fasting from food, there are other ways to fast. Anything you can temporarily give up in order to better focus on God can be considered a fast (1 Corinthians 7:1-5). Fasting should be limited to a set time, especially when the fasting is from food. Extended periods of time without eating are harmful to the body. Fasting is not intended to punish our flesh, but to focus on God. It can also help us to identify with the poor and needy—with those who have no choice in about going without food. It helps us, in this culture of instant gratification, not to let our bodies rule our mind and spirit.

Fasting should not be considered a "dieting method" either. We shouldn't fast to lose weight, but rather to gain deeper fellowship with God.

Laura Broyles, Adult Faith Formation Director
laura.broyles@abecket.org

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