What is fasting? Fasting is total or partial abstinence from food. A fast can also be abstinence from a habit or behavior. The rest of this web page will focus on fasting from food What is abstinence? Abstinence is refraining from some external action. What is the purpose of fasting? Fasting is usually done for one or more of the following reasons: disciplining the flesh repenting from sin focusing on a prayer need starting a new life discipline When is fasting to take place? The Episcopal Church has two days that are specially set aside for fasting: Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. Fasting can be done any other day or time period of the year. Pray for guidance before undertaking a fast. A fast is not to be undertaken lightly, but for good reason. How is a fast to be done? Fasting can be done in a number of different ways: no food, any liquid okay no food, water only no food except salad, any liquid or water can fast a single meal can fast for a day can fast for multiple days What are some of the dangers of fasting? Fasting can be misused for selfish ends: to get things from God as a substitute for genuine repentance as an end in itself, a mere duty to show our religiosity before others Fasting can be dangerous if you have a medical problem.  Consult with your doctor if you have any concerns about fasting.