Friday Penance

Friday has traditionally been kept by Christians as a penitential day because it is the day on which Our Lord suffered and died for the salvation of the world.

Catholics are therefore called to keep Friday with some spirit of penance, recollection, and gratitude for the Cross of Christ.

Abstinence from Meat

In England and Wales, Catholics who have completed their fourteenth year are required to abstain from meat on Fridays, unless a solemnity falls on that day. Those who do not normally eat meat should abstain from another food they regularly enjoy.

This simple practice unites ordinary Christian life to the sacrifice of Christ.

The Purpose of Penance

Christian penance is not about punishing ourselves harshly.

Rather, it:

• teaches self-discipline
• weakens selfishness
• deepens repentance
• strengthens gratitude
• unites us more closely to Christ

Penance reminds us that Christian life involves conversion and sacrifice.

Keep Friday Deliberately

Try not to let Friday become entirely ordinary.

You might also:

• pray the Rosary
• spend time before the Blessed Sacrament
• make the Stations of the Cross
• perform an act of charity
• practise greater simplicity

Even small acts offered faithfully can help form the soul.

Unite Penance with Charity

Penance should never become self-focused.

It should lead us towards greater love of God and neighbour.

Acts of fasting and self-denial are especially fruitful when joined to generosity, patience, and mercy towards others.

Begin Modestly but Faithfully

Some people attempt severe practices that quickly become unsustainable.

It is usually better to keep simple acts of penance steadily and faithfully.

Small sacrifices offered regularly can gradually deepen Christian discipline and love.