Catholic Priest Advises on Health Considerations for Lenten Fasting

By Onyekachukwu Obi

Christians have been encouraged to ensure they are in good health before partaking in the Lenten fasting process.

During the Ash Wednesday Eucharistic service held in Abuja, Reverend Father Sebastian Sanni of Our Lady Queen of Peace, Utako, shared this important message.

He emphasized that "fasting not only entails spiritual development and repentance, but one also needs to be in good health to engage in this spiritual practice effectively."

Ash Wednesday marks the inaugural holy day in the Christian liturgical calendar, signifying the onset of Lent, which consists of 40 days devoted to prayer, fasting, and penance.

"Lent represents a period of fasting, prayer, almsgiving, self-reflection, and complete submission to God, during which Christians receive ashes on their foreheads as a sign of repentance, humility, reconciliation, and transformation," he explained.

"This season serves as a divine call for Christians to return to the Lord, seeking heartfelt repentance, as it is the most beneficial action for our lives."

Rev. Fr. Sanni encouraged believers to utilize this Lenten period to mend their relationships with God and each other, stating, "If you are fasting but harboring grudges against others, your fast will be ineffective."

Moreover, he asserted that the most meaningful investment during Lent is to assist those in need, reflecting Christ’s teachings.

Daily Trust reports that this year’s Lenten season began on the 18th of February and will conclude on Holy Saturday, the day preceding Easter Sunday, in line with the Christian liturgical schedule for 2026.