Tomorrow starts the Apostles Fast, which is the traditional fast leading up to Ss. Peter and Paul's feast day. During this time, we will refrain from eating any meat, poultry, fish (excluding shellfish) and animal products, which includes dairy and eggs. Wine and oil are also banned except for on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturday and Sunday. Fish is also allowed on Saturday and Sunday. Why are oil and wine "contraband?" Because we are fasting, we are supposed to be in a state of repentence and focus on Christ and our salvation. They also represent joy and happiness, which do not necessarily help us in our striving towards repentence.
Basically, it's a very strict vegan diet for over two weeks to commemorate the Apostles fasting after Christ ascended into Heaven and the Holy Spirit's descent. The Apostles were preparing for their journey out of Jerusalem to bring the good news of Christ to the world. Where else did the fast come from? Holy Scripture points to it. The Pharisees were poo pooing on the Apostles for not fasting, but Christ told them "Can the children of the bridechamber mourn, as long as the Bridegroom is with them? But the days will come, when the Bridegroom shall be taken from them, and then shall they fast." (St. Matthew 9:15)
This is my first time doing a fast for an extended period of time. Boy, I thought it was rough fasting on Wednesdays and Fridays! I'm going to be losing a lot of weight. At least I can fit into those shorts now. :P Just kidding. Although it will be a struggle, by God's grace I will be able to do it. I will no doubt be taking comfort in St. Paul's words in his letter to the Philippians: "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength (Philippians 4:13)." Please pray for me during these next few weeks! I'll be updating fairly regularly throughout the fast.
In Christ,
Andrew
Basically, it's a very strict vegan diet for over two weeks to commemorate the Apostles fasting after Christ ascended into Heaven and the Holy Spirit's descent. The Apostles were preparing for their journey out of Jerusalem to bring the good news of Christ to the world. Where else did the fast come from? Holy Scripture points to it. The Pharisees were poo pooing on the Apostles for not fasting, but Christ told them "Can the children of the bridechamber mourn, as long as the Bridegroom is with them? But the days will come, when the Bridegroom shall be taken from them, and then shall they fast." (St. Matthew 9:15)
This is my first time doing a fast for an extended period of time. Boy, I thought it was rough fasting on Wednesdays and Fridays! I'm going to be losing a lot of weight. At least I can fit into those shorts now. :P Just kidding. Although it will be a struggle, by God's grace I will be able to do it. I will no doubt be taking comfort in St. Paul's words in his letter to the Philippians: "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength (Philippians 4:13)." Please pray for me during these next few weeks! I'll be updating fairly regularly throughout the fast.
In Christ,
Andrew
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