Note: This article is written about Exodus 90, our pre-Easter exercise. Check out our Easter disciplines as well.

Fasting has played a role in every age of human civilization. From the very beginning of mankind, the Lord called man to fast. He commanded Adam and Eve to abstain from eating the fruit of the knowledge of good and evil (see Genesis 2:17). Esau lost his birthright when he failed to fast (see Genesis 25:30-34). Samuel was given to his mother when she fasted and prayed (see 1 Samuel 1:13-16). Samson’s unconquerable heroism was brought about by fasting (see Judges 13:4).

There is a rich tradition of fasting in Christianity—especially in the Church Fathers. Exodus 90 builds on this tradition through a list of food-related asceticisms that we observe. This article will have specific answers to food and drink questions. If you have general questions about the disciplines check out: "What are the Disciplines of Exodus 90" and "How Closely Do You Need To Follow the Disciplines of Exodus?"

"So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God." (1 Corinthians 10:31)

On Wednesday, Judas betrayed Jesus. On Friday, Jesus was crucified.

From the earlier records of Christianity, these two days have been observed as penitential days where Jesus's Passion is recalled. At Exodus, we are committed to recalling these events and conforming our lives to Jesus's Passion. It is only through his Passion and Resurrection that we can have the ultimate freedom—eternal life with God in heaven.

Snacking only refers to food eaten between meals. While you do not eat anything between meals when you fast, fasting also affects the meals themselves. Specifically, when we fast we are allowed to eat one full, as well as two smaller meals that together are not equal to a full meal.

This is the minimum for Exodus 90 and the minimum established by the Roman Catholic Church for days of fasting. Another traditional fast is that of only bread and water. But for Exodus 90, the minimum fast on Wednesday and Friday is one full, as well as two smaller meals that together are not equal to a full meal.

This is a cultural question. Most men eat three meals a day—breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If this is you, this is the answer, three meals.

Other men work physically draining jobs that have accustomed them to eating a fourth meal or live in a country where this is the common practice. During Exodus 90, avoid eating snacks and keep eating as many substantial meals as you were accustomed to eating before you started Exodus 90.

A snack is any food eaten between meals.

Yes

No

Yes

Each man should be prudent when abstaining from foods and fasting. If you have a legitimate health concern, refrain from the disciplines that pose challenges to your health and obviously follow the recommendations of your doctor. If you are refraining from any disciplines, share this with your fraternity as you are able, especially with your anchor. Allow your brothers to pray for you as well as to know just how they need to hold you accountable. No need to add any extra disciplines if you have to remove one.