The Great Fast of Lent applies to all those between the ages of 21 and 59, requiring them to limit their intake of food to one main meal, at which meat may be taken, and two meatless snacks.  Liquids are not included in the fast, although we should avoid liquids heavy in calories such as soups, milkshakes, smoothies, etc., all of which should be considered as one of our two snacks of the day.

The usual exemptions from the fast apply to those for whom it could be physically harmful, such as expecting and nursing mothers, the sick and those on special medically required diets, those involved in heavy work such as construction, and students.  If in doubt, check with Father!  Children and young people under the age of 21 should be encouraged to participate in the fast in some smaller and voluntary way.  The only binding law for children (7 years and older) is the observance of partial abstinence on the Ember Days of Lent.

Complete abstinence should be observed on Ash Wednesday and the morning of Holy Saturday, and of course on Fridays as usual.  The fast is traditionally dispensed on St. Patrick’s Day.