Next Ember Days:
Wednesday, February 25; Friday, February 27; and Saturday, February 28, 2026
Why the Ember Days?
To Thank God
Through fasting and prayer, we turn our hearts in gratitude to the Lord, who is the source of all of our blessings.
To Learn Moderation
Fasting teaches us to practice self-control, so that we are guided by the Holy Spirit rather than our own appetites.
To Assist those in Need
When we consume less, we have more to give away. Fasting provides an opportunity both for intercession and almsgiving.
The History of the Ember Days
If you are able to fast, you will do well to observe some days beyond what are ordered by the Church, for besides the ordinary effect of fasting in raising the mind, subduing the flesh, confirming goodness, and obtaining a heavenly reward, it is also a great matter to be able to control greediness, and to keep the sensual appetites and the whole body subject to the law of the Spirit; and although we may be able to do but little, the enemy nevertheless stands more in awe of those whom he knows can fast. The early Christians selected Wednesday, Friday and Saturday as days of abstinence. Do you follow therein according as your own devotion and your director’s discretion may appoint.
St. Francis de Sales (1567-1622)
“This fast was beneficially established for the healing of soul and body,, and we must observe it with devotion. For when the Apostles were filled with the promised power, and the Spirit of truth entered their hearts, we do not doubt that, among the other mysteries of heavenly doctrine, this discipline of spiritual self-restraint was first inspired by the teaching of the Paraclete, so that minds sanctified by fasting might be more ready for the charisms to be conferred on them.”
Pope St. Leo the Great (c. 400 – 461)