The following are Lenten regulations to be practiced by all Catholics:
- Catholics who have celebrated their 14th birthday are to abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday (Feb. 25), all Fridays in Lent, and Good Friday (April 10).
- In addition to abstaining from meat, Catholics who have celebrated their 18th birthday, until they celebrate their 59th birthday, are to fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. Those who are bound to this regulation may eat only one full meal. Two smaller meals are permitted if necessary to maintain strength according to one’s needs, but eating solid foods between meals is not permitted.
These minimal penitential practices should not be lightly excused.
For more information about Lent and Lenten practices, including resources for penance around the diocese, go to www.madisondiocese.org (On the home page, look under “Ministry,” “Worship,” and “Liturgical Year.”)