We begin with the sign of the cross, In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Examine your conscience. (Take a few minutes. In silence, remember and feel sorry for your sins, and think of ways you will amend your life.)

Pray the Act of Contrition.

Fasting and abstinence are acts of penance and mortification. Fasting consists of eating one full meal and two small meals, that together, are not equal to one full meal. Abstinence is to avoid eating meat. However, fish and dairy are allowed. Fasting and abstinence are required on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. Abstinence is required on every Friday of Lent.

Fasting and abstinence are important for our spiritual growth. Jesus Christ fasted while on earth, to demonstrate to us that fasting helps us to draw closer to God. It strengthen us and equips us to resist temptations. Fasting helps us to suffer for our faith in Jesus Christ. It purifies all that is evil within us. Fasting teaches us humility, and our dependence on God. Fasting renews our spirit and helps us to be generous to others. When we feel hunger and thirst, we become grateful for the many blessings God has provided us, and we become more compassionate to those who are less fortunate.

Catholic fasting and abstinence are very easy. However, there are other types of fasting and abstinence that one can consider during Lent, that does not involve food. One can fast from gossiping, being critical and bitter. One can abstain from television, social media, social events, and entertainments.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end, Amen.

To receive abundance of graces during this retreat, you can choose to do any of the following daily:

Attend the Holy Mass daily.

Pray the Rosary.

Pray the Chaplet of the Divine Mercy.

Pray and meditate on the Way of the Cross.

Pray at least 15 minutes in front of the Blessed Sacrament.

Read the bible and mediate on scripture for at least 15 minutes.

Pray the Litany of Humility.

Invite others to join this retreat, as a family or as a group.

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