The Benefits of Fasting

Danny Ong

During this month of Lent, Catholics are supposed to fast. Let me share with you my personal experience in fasting. I have been fasting since Lent 2002. No, I have not been fasting everyday since then. But, I am glad to say I have fasted most of the week days since 2002. Some days when I do not feel well or when I feel too hungry, I would break my fast.

Why do I fast? Well, in my line of work, I face temptation everyday. From my personal experience, fasting brings me closer to God. And that bond  strengthens me spiritually to resist the temptations.

What do I do when I fast. Basically, I fast by skipping breakfast and lunch. I drink milo when I feel the hunger pangs and also to give me energy.

When I fast, I say a prayer. I offer up my sacrifice to the clergy and the religious (to strengthen them), those in purgatory (so that they may enter the Kingdom of God sooner) and all those who are in need.