Good Friday, April 15, is a day for fast and abstinence. All Fridays of Lent are also days of abstinence.

Fasting is to be observed by all Catholics, 18 years of age and older, who have not yet celebrated their 59th birthday. 

 

On a fast day, one full meal is allowed. Two other meals, sufficient to maintain strength, may be taken according to each one’s needs, but together they should not equal another full meal. 

 

Eating between meals is not permitted, but liquids, including milk and juices, are allowed.

 

Abstinence is observed by all Catholics 14 years of age and older. On days of abstinence no meat is allowed. 

 

Note that when health or ability to work would be seriously affected, the law does not oblige. When in doubt concerning fast and abstinence, the parish priest should be consulted. (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1251-1252)