Lent, a 40-day period of prayer, fasting, and repentance for Catholics, begins on Ash Wednesday, March 5, and continues through sundown on Holy Thursday, April 17. The Archdiocese of Newark has outlined specific obligations for its members during this time.

Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., approved the regulations for Catholics in the Archdiocese who are in good health. Both Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are designated as days of both fasting and abstinence. If possible, the fast on Good Friday should extend until the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday night to honor Jesus' suffering and death and prepare for His Resurrection.

During a day of fasting, only one full meal is allowed along with two smaller meals that together do not exceed the main meal's quantity. This obligation applies to those aged 18 to 59.

On days of abstinence, no meat may be consumed. This rule applies to individuals aged 14 and older.

Observing these laws "substantially," or as a whole, is considered a serious obligation by the Church. Outside Lent, Fridays are also seen as days of penance where individuals can choose an alternative form of self-denial instead of abstaining from meat.

The period for fulfilling the Paschal Precept extends from March 9 to June 15, requiring all faithful who have received their First Communion to partake in Communion at least once during this time.

For additional Lenten resources or inquiries about Lenten obligations, parishioners are encouraged to visit rcan.org/lent-resources or consult with their local pastor.