Lent, starting in just over 24 hours, will be one of the most interesting ones for me. The primary sacrifice this year around is in the area of drink - I'm sticking to just water. It will be tough, as I do so love pop, but since I've already gone about two weeks without it, I should make it through just fine. Yes, the lack of caffeine through the middle part of the semester may not be the brightest idea in the world, but I'm sure God will take care of that problem. Thus far, the side-effects have been almost unnoticeable, and I doubt they'll get any worse.

The Eastern Catholics here - and those who like to pick up on those devotions - will undoubtedly put my efforts to shame, which is a good thing (I believe the Ruthenian Rite is the one represented among my usual dinner group). I might learn a thing or two from them this Lent.

Incidentally, monsignor messed up the Lenten dates this year, swapping the fasting days for the abstinence days. For the purposes of clarity:

Fasting* Dates - March 1, April 14
Abstinence** Dates - March 1, March 3, March 10, March 17, March 24, March 31, April 7, April 14

* Not really "fasting" fasting, but just eating only one full meal and no more than two little snacks.
** This just means avoiding meats. Fish are allowed, hence the ubiquitous fish fries that will be springing up.

- Posted by in Catholic at 9:24 PM