FAST AND ABSTINENCE These regulations unite the whole Catholic Church throughout the world in the Lenten journey of repentance and conversion of heart. Observed in a spirit of generosity, fast and abstinence remind us of our own frailty and make us more sensitive to the needs of others. Acts of penance find their completion in works of charity and justice. Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are days of fast and abstinence The Fridays of Lent are days of abstinence. Fasting: Those between the ages of 18 and 59 years old are obliged to observe the laws on fasting. Traditionally, to fast means limiting oneself to one full meal in the day and two smaller meals. The two prescribed days of fasting are Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. Abstinence: The law of abstinence obliges all those who are over the age of 14. On days of abstinence meat is not eaten at any meal. The prescribed days of abstinence are Ash Wednesday and all the Fridays of Lent, including Good Friday. Those individuals who have a medical condition in which fasting or abstaining may be considered harmful are not obliged to fast or abstain, but should perform some other act of penance or charity. All parishioners are encouraged to do acts of penance and charity during the Lenten season beyond what is prescribed by law.