Conversing with God

Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (1 Th 5:16-18)

Prayer, being in conversation with God, is an essential part of Christian life. Through prayer, we can receive the strength needed to ascend to ascetic practices (like fasting). Pope Francis said, "Lent is a privileged time for prayer.” Grow closer in relationship with God by taking advantage of the many prayerful opportunities around Harford County.

Why do we Fast?

But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, 18 that your fasting may not be seen by men but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you. (Mt 6:17-18)

Christ fasted for Christ fasted for 40 days and 40 nights to prepare Himself for the time that He would come face-to-face with Satan, because He knew He would need His Father's strength. To fast is to do without food. Its purpose is to experience the effects of not eating. It also serves to be a penance or a sacrifice - for the purpose of strengthening us. When we don't eat, for even a little while, we get hungry. When we are hungry, we have a heightened sense of awareness. When we fast, we have that feeling of alertness. It is purifying for the soul and prepares us to pray more deeply.

You may think you don't need to fast, but after you have fasted and felt the closeness of God and His strength in you, you become aware of how weak and far away from God we can be. Fasting is a tool that God has given us to become spiritually stronger so that we can go on our spiritual journey with Him. When you fast, you will find yourself being humbled. As He leads you to recognize and repent, you will experience special blessings. When you fast, you will empty yourself, opening yourself up to accept God more honestly. A renewed closeness with God and a greater sensitivity to spiritual things are usually the results of a fast.

When and Who should Fast?

• Abstinence from all meat is to be observed by all Roman Catholics 14 years of age and older on Ash Wednesday, all Fridays in Lent, and Good Friday.
• Fasting is to be observed on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday by all Roman Catholics 18-59 years of age. Roman Catholics over the age of 60 are exempt.
• All Fridays in Lent are Days of Abstinence (eg, no meat)

Treasure, time and talent

But if any one has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him? (1 Jn 3:17)

Almsgiving is one of the corporal works of mercy, which are "charitable actions by which we help our neighbors in their bodily needs" (USCCA). The Catechism tells us that "giving alms to the poor is one of the chief witnesses to fraternal charity: it is also a work of justice pleasing to God" (cf. CCC 2447). This Lent rely on Him to provide for your material needs. Surrender your material comfort as you extend that comfort to those most in need.

While it is important to satisfy the material needs of our brethren, we must also give of our time and talents to those around us. Like the Apostle says, we must make ourselves all things to all people. Be there as you are needed. Mother Teresa tells us, “Loneliness is the leprosy of the modern world.” Be that healing touch to that family member, neighbor, coworker, etc., who is in need of some company.

Below are some Harford County groups that would benefit of your support. Most importantly, please keep them in your prayers.