Christian Fasting: Disciplining The Body, Awakening The Spirit

Fasting is an indispensable part of the Christian life, a purification of our habits of eating and drinking, which allows us to rein in our physical appetites.This informative new booklet explores the Catholic understanding of fasting using Scripture and the teachings of Christ and his Church. The true meaning and value of fasting aligned with almsgiving and prayer is beautifully explained - and complemented by quotations and a question-and-answer section. The Friday Penance, recently given new emphasis, is also discussed in relation to a rediscovering of our Catholic identity.

ÔÇÿJust as Adam was driven out of paradise for having eaten, refusing to trust, so it is by fasting and faith that they who wish to enter paradise do so.ÔÇÖ - St Athanasius

Sr Mary David is a nun of the Benedictine community of St CeciliaÔÇÖs Abbey in Ryde on the Isle of Wight.