You may remember that I’ve often invited you to join me in observing the Ember Days. The Ember Days are a traditional time of prayer and fasting connected to each season of the year. The idea is to sanctify – to make holy – each season. While not as popular now, the practice of fasting has always been a central part of the Christian call to holiness. It purifies our attachment to food, reminds us of the fact that many go without, and gives us a chance to remind our bodies that there is more to life than the things of this world. We cannot forget Jesus also taught that some demons can only be cast out by prayer and fasting. This is not to say we’re all possessed, but rather to acknowledge that demons are always active in trying to lead us astray. Fasting is a powerful weapon in our fight against this effort. Besides, these always fall during Lent, which is the season for such practices anyway.
The Spring Ember Days always come after the First Sunday of Lent and are meant as a chance to give thanks for the rebirth of nature and for the gift of light since we are entering into that time of year. Traditionally, an offering of flowers was made at this time.
The Ember Days are specifically observed on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. Wednesday because it is a reminder that Judas betrayed Christ on a Wednesday. Friday because that is when Christ died. And Saturday because that is when Christ lay in the tomb. Thursday, since it is connected to the gift of the Eucharist, is considered the “day between the fasts.” Now, the fast is not particularly intense. It is not what some would call a “black fast,” which means to eat nothing at all. Rather, it is the same as the fasts that the Church asks us to observe on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. That means you can have one full meal that day and, if needed, two small snacks that are less than half a meal each. Additionally, it includes abstinence from meat. On the Wednesday and Saturday, you can have meat at the one full meal, but not at the snacks. Friday is no meat at all.
The Ember Days are an optional practice, but it is that much more beneficial to those who do it because they freely make the sacrifice. I encourage all who are able (without endangering their health) to join me in this ancient practice. If perhaps it is too daunting to keep the complete practice, then consider doing it for one or two of the days. I especially recommend the Friday. At the very least, do offer some extra prayers at this time in thanksgiving for Spring and of course for more vocations to the priesthood. Whatever you choose to do, remember that it is an offering of love and God always rewards those who love him.
– In Christ,
Fr. Albert