Ash Wednesday and Fasting

Ash Wednesday is almost upon us. While Ash Wednesday is a beautiful, powerful, and beloved service in The Episcopal Church, there is an aspect of Ash Wednesday that is not always as beloved - fasting. There are two fast days in The Episcopal Church: Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. So here is a very brief intro to fasting.

Why?! Many people say, why will going without food do any good for me or for God? And, when looked at that way, the answer might be, It won't. Nevertheless, fasting is a universal human thing. Throughout history, in different religions and different cultures, humans have always practiced some form of fasting. Why? Because going without food - when done with love of God and neighbor in mind - puts us in a humble and prayerful space like nothing else can. Jesus himself fasted.

How do we fast? Yes, fasting can look different for everyone. But the one consistent thing is that it means going with less food than is comfortable. With that in mind, consider planning your Ash Wednesday with one meal and a snack, or maybe two meals, or maybe none at all with some light snacks in the morning and afternoon. Fasting is different for everyone. (And of course, those who are too young or those who are elderly, pregnant and nursing women, those who are sick, and those for whom medication prevents fasting, are all excluded. Theirs is an interior fast of the heart.)

Remember the goal: to draw near to God in heart and body. The goal is not to prove one's strength, nor is it to harm the body, nor is it to earn God's love or to make a deal with God. God already loves you perfectly. God already listens when you pray. Fasting is simply following Jesus's example, in body and spirit, to approach God with special intention and love on these sacred days: Ash Wednesday and Good Friday.

Please reach out to a priest if you have questions about fasting and preparing for Ash Wednesday.