THIS IS WHY THE CATHOLIC FAITHFUL SHOULD FAST ONE HOUR BEFORE SUNDAY MASS
The Catholic Church teaches that the faithful should fast one hour before Sunday Mass. The practice of fasting before Mass is an ancient discipline, present as early as the 2nd century. It remained in place until Pope Pius XII reduced the fast to three hours in 1957. The fast was further shortened in 1964 when Pope Paul VI lowered it to one hour before reception of Communion. The current Code of Canon Law reflects this change and states, “A person who is to receive the Most Holy Eucharist is to abstain for at least one hour before holy communion from any food and drink, except for only water and medicine” (Canon 919 §1).
Fasting is a way for us to prepare ourselves spiritually for the celebration of the Eucharist.
There are several reasons why the Church teaches us to fast before Mass. First, fasting is a way of mortifying our flesh and making it subject to the spirit. When we fast, we are denying ourselves the pleasures of food and drink, and we are training ourselves to be more disciplined and self-controlled. This can help us to be more focused and attentive during Mass.
Second, fasting is a way of showing our reverence for the Eucharist. The Eucharist is the Body and Blood of Christ, and it is the greatest gift that God has given us. When we fast, we are showing our respect for this gift and our desire to receive it worthily.
Third, fasting is a way of uniting ourselves with Christ. When Jesus fasted in the desert, he was preparing himself for his mission of redemption. By fasting before Mass, we are imitating Jesus and preparing ourselves to receive his grace and mercy.
If you are not used to fasting, it is best to start slowly. You can start by fasting for half an hour before Mass, and then gradually increase the amount of time you fast. It is also important to drink plenty of fluids before and after fasting.
Fasting can be a challenge, but it is also a rewarding experience. When we fast, we are not only preparing ourselves for Mass, but we are also growing in our spiritual life.
Here are some tips for fasting before Sunday Mass:
- Start slowly and gradually increase the amount of time you fast.
- Drink plenty of fluids before and after fasting.
- Avoid strenuous activity while you are fasting.
- If you feel lightheaded or dizzy, break your fast.
- Talk to your doctor if you have any health concerns about fasting.
Fasting is a way to show our love for God and to prepare ourselves for the celebration of the Eucharist. It is a challenge, but it is also a rewarding experience. If you are interested in fasting before Sunday Mass, I encourage you to talk to your priest or spiritual director. They can help you to develop a plan that is right for you.
