Are you READY?
Ash Wednesday begins tomorrow February 18th.
The Christian tradition comprises three major expressions of the life of prayer: vocal prayer, meditation, and contemplative prayer (Catechism, No. 2721). If you don’t know what these types of prayer are, read the section on prayer in the Catechism. If you don’t have a Catechism — buy one! It gives a wonderful overview of our tradition of Christian prayer.
We are called to make resolutions for Prayer, Fasting, and Almsgiving.
I think people are quick to “give up” something for lent but forget to increase their prayer. If you have not made a resolution to increase your prayer in some way consider downloading my Examen App. St. Ignatius says that it is the most important prayer we can pray to help us stay close to God and remain aware of His presence. With this App you can make a resolution and be reminded to pray twice a day the Examen Prayer.
Download the free App Here!
I will also be giving the Parish Mission at St. Joseph in Amherst. Hope you can make it there as I lead you through the app and the Examen Prayer. Each evening will bring the steps to life with some of your favorite songs, my personal inspirational stories, and an opportunity for Confession.
Lenten Guidelines:
Catholics between the ages of 18 and 59 are obliged to fast (two small meals and one regular meal, no eating in between) on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. In addition, all Catholics 14 years old and older must abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday, Good Friday and all the Fridays of Lent.
FASTING is to be observed by all, 18 years of age and older, who have not yet celebrated their 59th birthday. On a fast day, one full meal is allowed. Two other 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, but liquids, including milk and juices, are allowed.
ABSTINENCE is observed by all 14 years of age and older. On days of abstinence no meat is allowed. Note that when health or ability to work would be seriously affected, the law does not oblige. When in doubt concerning fast and abstinence, the parish priest should be consulted (CCL, Nos. 1251-1252).
Fasting, almsgiving, and prayer are the three traditional disciplines of Lent. The faithful and catechumens should undertake these practices seriously in a spirit of penance and of preparation for baptism or of renewal of baptism at Easter.
