Lenten regulations

According to universal church discipline, all members of the Christian faithful are bound to do penance in virtue of divine law. In order that the faithful join in a more common observance of penance, penitential days are prescribed for prayer, exercising works of charity, and engaging in acts of self-discipline and denial.

In a special way, the entire season of Lent is days of penance observed throughout the whole church. The holy season of Lent begins with Ash Wednesday and ends with the celebration of the commemoration of the Lord's supper on Holy Thursday.

1. The time of Lent is to be observed by Catholics as a special season of prayer, penance, and works of charity.
2. Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, in particular, are the most important penitential days for the liturgical year. They are days of both fast and abstinence. The rule of fasting states that only one full meal a day can be taken. Two small meals, "sufficient to maintain strength," are allowed, but together they should not equal another full meal. Eating between meals breaks the fast, but drinking does not. The rule of fasting obliges all Catholics from age 18 to 59.
3. All Fridays in Lent are days of abstinence. Abstinence refers to the eating of meat. Under the present law it does not include egg or milk products. The common estimation of community is used to determine what falls under the category of meat. The rule of abstinence binds all Catholics 14 years old and older.
4. The substantial observance of the laws of fast and abstinence is a serious obligation. Those whose work or health would be impaired are excused from fasting and abstaining. The individual conscience can decide if there is proper cause to excuse. A more serious reason should be present to excuse oneself from Ash Wednesday and Good Friday penance.
5. Self-imposed fasting on the other weekdays of Lent is recommended. Other penances, such as works of piety and charity, and other acts of self-denial, also are appropriate as penitential acts.
6. Parents and teachers should see to it that even children not bound by the laws of fast and abstinence because of age are brought up in an atmosphere that is conducive to a sense of penance.
7. The faithful should be clearly and positively encouraged to receive the sacrament of reconciliation during Lent. There should be adequate time scheduled for confession before Easter.
8. The liturgical directions of the Sacramentary and Lectionary must be faithfully observed regarding all the special Holy Week Rites.
9. Funeral Masses are not allowed on Holy Thursday, Good Friday or Holy Saturday. The Funeral Rite Outside of Mass can be held in church on those days, with a Funeral Mass later.
10. The RCIA is incorporated into the liturgy of Lent. The Rite of Election is celebrated on the first Sunday of Lent. On the Third, Fourth and Fifth Sunday of Lent, the Scutinies take place during the Mass.