During Lent, Catholics abstain and fast at certain times. But the Catholic Church views every Friday (except solemnities) as a penitential day, which means we should abstain from meat or something else we desire every Friday of the year, and not just during Lent. If you’re confused about the difference between abstaining and fasting, just remember:

Canon 1250 states, “All Fridays through the year and the time of Lent are penitential days and times throughout the entire Church.”

The Church prescribes this for three reasons:

Do you fast during Ordinary Time? Comment below!

For a great video on the benefits of fasting, check out “Why Should Christians Fast?” by The CFRs and Jackie Mulligan of Reform Wellness.