It’s a Lenten Friday.
Which, as we all know, means no meat.
This always seems like a small and simple thing—until suddenly it’s 4 p.m., and you can’t stop thinking about that chicken burrito bowl.
Or, even worse, you suffer the classic slip-up.
You’re at your work’s Friday lunch, and the table orders large pizzas to split. Pepperoni. You take an innocent bite, forgetting it’s Friday—and halfway through a big slice, it hits you…
It’s okay. We’ve all been there. Fasting and abstinence are meant to be hard.
Today, let’s look at an all-time great when it comes to fasting. Maybe his example will give us the fortitude we need to finish this final month of Lent strong.
St. Nicholas of Flüe is known for one of the most extraordinary fasting stories in Catholic history.
Not only was he faithful in abstaining from meat on Fridays—he is said to have lived for nearly two decades without consuming any food at all, surviving only on the Eucharist.
No bread. No vegetables. No broth. No pepperoni pizza. Just the Body of Christ.
St. Nicholas of Flüe wasn’t trying to impress anyone or break records. He simply loved God and trusted Him. His fast flowed from deep prayer and an intense spiritual life. He didn’t need food in the usual way—God sustained him.
While we definitely recommend continuing to eat a well-balanced diet, we also hope you’re inspired by the example of St. Nicholas of Flüe in your own Lenten fasts.
In moments of temptation, remember: God loves you and wants to give you the grace you need to endure. All you have to do is ask.
And don’t forget—St. Nicholas was intimately united with Christ in the Eucharist. If you want to fast like a saint, you need to fuel like one too. This Lent, go to Our Lord in the Eucharist. He waits for you there.
If Eucharistic Adoration feels intimidating, we get it. It can be hard to know what to say as you gaze upon His Presence.
If that sounds familiar, the Manual for Eucharistic Adoration is perfect for you. Written by the Poor Clare Nuns (who know a thing or two about prayer and Adoration!), this little book will guide you through your Holy Hour and help you grow in friendship with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament.
