Fr. Gregory Pine, O.P., an expert on Catholic fasting, discusses the revival of fasting in secular culture, emphasizing its role in temperance and spiritual growth. He explores the virtues of temperance, fasting, and abstinence in Christian life, highlighting their significance in disciplining desires and prioritizing spiritual growth over material indulgence.
Fasting aligns appetites with good, showcases willingness to discipline for spiritual growth.
Fasting in Christianity serves as a discipline, offering satisfaction for sins and aligning will with God's purpose.
Deep dives
Understanding the Virtue of Temperance and Abstinence
Fasting is closely related to the virtue of temperance, which moderates our desire for sense goods like food and drink, aiming to align our appetites with what is good. Within temperance, the specific virtue of abstinence regulates our intake of food and drink, ensuring we consume what is necessary for bodily health without excess.
Fasting as a Disciplinary Act of Faith
Fasting, as an act of abstinence, serves as a means to discipline our appetites and express our devotion to God by subordinating our lower desires to higher spiritual goods. It is not about constant deprivation but rather an exemplary act showing our willingness to mortify the flesh for spiritual growth.
Fasting for Spiritual Healing and Growth
In the Christian tradition, fasting is viewed as a medicinal practice to cultivate self-discipline, cool lustful tendencies, and foster contemplation of higher truths. By fasting, individuals offer satisfaction for sins, aligning their will with God's purpose and seeking spiritual purification and growth.