Who?
Who can we fast for?
We can fast for others in need, for ourselves, our families, our neighbors, our friends, the prophet, missionaries, or special sacred events. It is a good idea to have a discussion with your parents about things you might fast for.
What is fasting?
Fasting is when we choose to go without food and water for a period of time.
When can we fast?
Anytime. On fast Sunday and we can fast other times when we feel we need to, when someone is in need, or when we are preparing for a special sacred event.
How long do we fast?
We usually choose to go without eating or drinking for two consecutive meals in a twenty four hour period.
For how many days did Jesus fast in the wilderness?
40 days and 40 nights
Who should fast?
All members of the church and children can fast when they feel ready. You can begin fasting when you and your parents feel you are ready, or when you feel the Holy Ghost telling you it is the right thing to do.
What are fast offerings?
Donations of money made by church members who voluntarily go without food and water on the first Sunday of the month.
When is fast Sunday?
The first Sunday of each month.
How long should I fast?
You can fast for the amount of time that you are able. It is ok to start where you are comfortable and work on improving at your own pace.
Who tempted Jesus while he was fasting?
The devil tried to tempt him with food.
Who should not fast?
Members who are sick, delicate in health, or have medical conditions preventing them from safely fasting should not fast. This includes pregnant or nursing mothers, young children, and individuals with specific chronic illnesses, who are exempt from the requirement. These members can still pray and feel the Holy Ghost while others are fasting.
What is another way to fast, besides just giving up food?
Giving up something like TV, video games, sweets, etc to focus on God.
When should we fast?
On Fast Sunday, which is the first Sunday of each month. Fast Sunday is a special day to humble ourselves before the Lord by fasting, praying, and attending fast and testimony meeting.
How much do we give for fast offering?
A fast offering should be at least the monetary value of the two meals you forgo during a 24-hour fast. The specific amount you give is a personal and prayerful decision, but the purpose is to provide a sacrificial gift for others.
What did Jesus say when he was tempted with food?
"Man does not live by bread alone."
Who do fast offerings help?
Fast offerings help care for those in need within the local congregation. The money collected also provides resources to help the poor, needy, and those facing temporary financial challenges with essential needs like food, housing, and medical bills. The local bishop or branch president, with the assistance of other local leaders, prayerfully determines how to best distribute these funds to meet the needs of the community.
What does fasting show Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ?
A desire to draw closer to God, express gratitude, and demonstrate humility by prioritizing spiritual needs over physical ones. Fasting also reveals a commitment to others through fast offerings to help the needy, strengthens spiritual power, builds empathy, and prepares an individual to receive blessings, answers to prayers, and guidance from God.
Why should we pray when we fast?
Fasting and prayer go together. Prayer adds power to fasting, without it fasting is simply going hungry. Start your fast with a prayer telling Heavenly Father what you are fasting for. End your fast with a prayer of gratitude for the fast and pray again for the things you have fasted for. When we fast and pray with faith, we are more receptive to receiving answers to our prayers and blessings from the Lord.
How does our attitude influence our experience when we fast?
If we fast with a with a happy countenance, we will have a better experience with it and receive blessings from it. If you feel hungry or are having a hard time fasting you can try remembering why you are choosing not to eat or drink, think about the people you are fasting for, or pray for help.
Why did Jesus fast before he began his ministry?
To spiritually prepare and strengthen himself. Show his devotion to God. Overcome Satan. Set an example for his followers.
Who can donate and who collects fast offerings?
Your parents are probably the ones to donate a fast offering for you, but if you feel you would like to contribute you can also.
Fast offerings are collected by Aaronic Priesthood holders (often the deacons in the ward) under the direction of the bishop, or they are given directly to a member of the bishopric, or donated online.
What blessings can we receive when we fast?
Many blessings come from fasting including: power and strength to overcome temptations and trials, healing and miracles, love for others, forgiveness of sins, personal revelation, a better relationship with Heavenly Father, added peace, self discipline, and joy.
Why do we bear our testimonies in church on Fast Sunday?
Fast Sunday is an opportunity to express personal knowledge of gospel truths, receive spiritual strength, and strengthen the faith of others in the congregation. The combined practice of fasting and prayer prepares members to receive spiritual promptings, making it a powerful setting to bear a sincere and Spirit-guided testimony of Jesus Christ and the restored gospel.
How should we act while we are fasting?
Humble and focused on the specific purpose for fasting rather than just going without food.
Jesus said that when you fast, you shouldn't show everyone what you're doing. Why is it important to keep fasting a private thing between you and God?
The Pharisees often made a show of their fasting with a sorrowful demeanor to gain public attention and admiration. By keeping it private, we avoid the hypocrisy of performing religious acts for external validation.