Lent is almost here!
This year, Ash Wednesday falls on February 18, 2026.
During the Lenten season, Catholics practice fasting and abstinence. Below is an illustrative guide that answers the most common questions about these important and obligatory spiritual practices for Catholics.
We explain the differences between fasting and abstinence, obligatory fasting and abstinence days, and the foods the Catholic Church allows for consumption on these days.
Your Catholic Guide for Fasting & Abstinence During Lent, According to Catholic Teaching
Why practice fasting and abstinence during Lent?
1) We imitate the temptation of Jesus in the desert.
2) It provides an opportunity to suffer for Christ and His Bride, the Catholic Church.
3) Fasting is scripturally rooted.
4) The Catechism of the Catholic Church explains in paragraphs 1434, 1438, and 2043 the importance and obligation Catholics ages 14 and over have to fast and abstain.
What is fasting?
Fasting is a spiritual penance and discipline that should detach us from the things of the world and draw us closer to Christ.
During Lent, fasting for Catholics means eating one full meal and two smaller meals during the day; the two smaller meals together should not equal a second full meal.
What is Abstinence?
Abstinence means refraining from eating meat (mammals and fowl). Traditionally, meat was considered luxurious, so abstaining from it is a form of simple sacrifice and penance.
The Church permits fish, which is why many parishes host Fish Fries on Fridays during Lent.
When does the Church require fasting and abstinence during Lent?
Catholics ages 18-59 are required to fast and abstain on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. This year, Ash Wednesday falls on February 18, and Good Friday is on April 3.
Additionally, all Fridays during Lent are obligatory days of abstinence, meaning Catholics cannot consume meat.
Who is required to fast and abstain?
All adults ages 18-59 are required to fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. Those ages 14 and older are required to abstain from meat on Fridays during Lent.
However, there are exceptions based on mental and physical limitations.
The USCCB says,
"Those who are excused from fast and abstinence outside the age limits include the physically or mentally ill, including individuals suffering from chronic illnesses such as diabetes. Also excluded are pregnant or nursing women."
Here's a quote from soon-to-be Blessed Archbishop Fulton Sheen to kick off your Lenten journey:
“Lenten practices of giving up pleasures are good reminders that the purpose of life is not pleasure. The purpose of life is to attain to perfect life, all truth and undying ecstatic love – which is the definition of God.”