Fasting & Sacrifices for Children

Dear Crusaders,

Being already a few weeks into Lent, we approach now the time of the Passion of Jesus. You heard the priest explaining to adults that they have to do some fasting in Lent. Now, what about you, dear children? Is there some kind of fasting or sacrifices that you can do in your daily life? Because only adults are obliged to fast on certain days, you may think: “Lent is something for adults, but not for me!”

Really? Do you think that Jesus was only thinking about adults when He said: “If anyone wants to come to Me, let him deny himself.” The Church did not make Lent only for adults, but also for children. So, what could you do?

First, eat less, even if it was only a mouthful less that usual. If you are thirsty, wait a bit before drinking. You can also practice the tongue’s fasting, I mean the silence. Is it really needed to always talk about what is coming through your head? With their tongue, men are telling so many lies, dirty words, idle talk. Jesus told us: “I tell you: on judgement day, men will have to give an account for every word said in vain.” Fast also with your sleep! How is this possible? To get up a few minutes earlier is a sacrifice very pleasing to God, especially if that time is used for prayer or meditation. Go to bed earlier! This is not laziness, but the way to practice self-discipline, and the condition to be able to get up early. You may fast also while playing with friends. I don’t want to forbid you to play in Lent, but you may shorten a bit the time spend to play and, sometimes, make the sacrifice of some playtime. Be careful of the places that attract little gluttons, with all kind of candies and sweet stuff.

By doing such fasting, you will train your soul to fight against the temptations of the devil. This will be excellent for you, and for others. Remember the words of Pope St. Leo: “Our fasting should be used to relieve the misery of the poor.” Another holy bishop was telling his faithful” “On fasting days, you must give alms, and give to the poor the food and drink that you should have taken; otherwise there would be no fast.”

Be assured that I am praying for your intentions,

                       Father Dominique Boulet
                                                                

E-mail address: EucharisticCrusade@sspx.ca

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