During Lent, there are certain days on which we are called to observe fasting and/or abstinence.

The guidelines for abstinence state that Catholics age 14 and older are invited to abstain from eating meat on Ash Wednesday and all the Fridays of Lent.

Catholics between the ages of 18 and 59 are to fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. On these days one full meal is permitted. Food may be taken at two other times during the day, in order to maintain strength according to each one’s needs, but together they should not equal another full meal. If you have a health situation that would make these guidelines unsafe, you should not feel constrained. Those who cannot fast are invited to honor the spirit of the fast by keeping meals as simple as possible.

Learn more from the United States Council of Catholic Bishops.