Lent 2023

The 2023 Lenten season begins with the observance of Ash Wednesday on February 22nd.  The Catholic Church asks each member to preserve the penitential character and purpose of Lent.  For this reason:

• 

  Catholics who have celebrated their 14th birthday are bound to abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday and each Friday of Lent;

• Catholics who have celebrated their 18th birthday, in addition to abstaining from meat, are to fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday.  Hence, on those days they may eat only one full meal.  Smaller quantities of food may be taken at two other meals, but no food should be consumed at other times during those days.  The obligation of fasting ceases with the celebration of one’s 59th birthday.

Catholics should not lightly excuse themselves from these prescribed minimal penitential practices.