THE OLD ROMAN CATHOLIC MISSION SOUTH EAST UK

It is important for Catholic Christians to observe Lent as a particular time of spiritual devotion.  Observing Lent is not just about "giving up" but also about "taking on."  The purpose of our observance of Lent is to prepare ourselves to more fully appreciate the Sacrifice of Christ on Calvary and to celebrate more joyfully the Resurrection on Easter Sunday.  Making personal sacrifices during Lent help us to appreciate the great Sacrifice Our Lord made for us on the Cross, it will also help our celebration of Easter when we will be able to enjoy those things which we sacrificed for Lent, again!

The most important aspect of Lenten Observance is one's motivation for it... Faith, Hope and Love...  these three things should colour and guide our observance and all that we "take on" or "give up" should reflect them.  Whatever we do in Lent should increase our Faith, our Hope and our Love so that we may grow more closer to God and His Son, Our Saviour, Jesus Christ.

Rules of Fast

The laws of fast apply to persons between the ages of twenty-one and fifty-nine. On a fast day one may eat one full meal and two light meatless meals, which together would not equal the main meal. Meat may be taken at the principal meal, except on days of complete abstinence. Liquids such as water, milk, and fruit juices may be taken between meals.

Rules of Abstinence

The laws of abstinence apply to everyone seven years of age and over. On a day of complete abstinence no meat, meat gravy or soup made from meat may be taken. On a day of partial abstinence meat may be taken once.

Traditional Days of Fast

All the days of Lent up till noon on Holy Saturday, Ember Days, the Vigils of Pentecost, the Immaculate Conception, Christmas, and All Saints.

Traditional Days of Complete Abstinence

Every Friday of the year, Ash Wednesday, Holy Saturday (until noon), the Vigils of All Saints, the Immaculate Conception, and Christmas.

Traditional Days of Partial Abstinence

Ember Wednesdays and Saturdays and the Vigil of Pentecost

Spiritual Works of Mercy

• Converting sinners
• Instructing the ignorant
• Advising the doubtful
• Comforting the sorrowful
• Bearing wrongs patiently
• Forgiving injuries
• Praying for the living and dead

Corporal Works of Mercy

• Feeding the hungry
• Sheltering the homeless
• Clothing the naked
• Visiting the sick
• Visiting the imprisoned
• Giving drink to the thirsty
• Burying the dead