# All God's People Fast
*2010-02-20*

> Bill Young reflects on the universal practice of fasting across religions and explains the Catholic obligations and personal opportunities for fasting during Lent.

## Fasting in the World’s Religions

Fasting is a common spiritual discipline. Muslims observe Ramadan, abstaining from food and drink from sunrise to sunset for a month. Jews have several fast days, the most solemn being Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. Many Hindus fast one day each week as a form of penance and purification.

## Catholic Fasting Requirements

In the Catholic Church, all faithful aged 14 and older are obliged to abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday and every Friday during Lent. Additionally, those aged 18 to 59 are required to fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, limiting themselves to one full meal and two smaller meals that together do not equal a full meal. While many younger Catholics observe these practices, some older Catholics find it harder to maintain them.

## Personal and Family Lenten Practices

Beyond the Church’s minimum requirements, many Catholics choose to give up something extra for Lent—whether a habit, a food, or a leisure activity. I once gave up rushing when my children were young, and it transformed both my life and theirs. This Lent, consider discussing with your family what each person might willingly give up, whether as a group or individually.

*Fasting unites us with the broader Christian and global tradition of seeking God through self‑denial.*