Fasting vs Abstinence — what’s the difference in the Catholic Church?
Many Catholics misunderstand fasting during Lent… and it can change how you approach your spiritual life.

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In this video, we explain Catholic fasting in a clear and practical way, including how it differs from abstinence and why the Church still teaches it today.

If you’ve ever wondered what counts as fasting, who is required to fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, or whether “fasting from negativity” is really the same thing, this will help clarify it.

⏱️ In this conversation:
• What Catholic fasting actually means (and why it always involves food)
• The difference between fasting and abstinence in the Catholic tradition
• The Church’s fasting rules for Lent
• Why fasting is essential for spiritual discipline
• How fasting helps reorder our desires and overcome attachment
• The deeper connection between food, temptation, and the fall

Fasting isn’t just about giving something up. It’s about training the soul—learning to hunger for God more than anything else, and preparing ourselves to fully enter into the joy of Easter.

If this reflection was helpful, consider sharing it with someone who is trying to live Lent more intentionally.

Watch more Lenten reflections here: https://tinyurl.com/2s36wnck