The first-century “The Teaching (Greek: Διδαχὴ) of the Twelve Apostles”, anglicized as Didache, is usually considered a “church manual” or a “church order”, the first of its kind to survive. The Didache admonishes Christians that, “… you should fast on Wednesday and Friday.”
Contemporary fasting practices vary by tradition (Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox, Roman Catholic, Anglican, some Protestant groups).
The Eastern Orthodox continue to observe the ancient Wednesday and Friday fasts. They start the fast at sundown the evening before and continue until the evening of the fasting day, with fasting during the day. In practice, they stop eating after sunset Tuesday for a Wednesday fast, and after sunset on Thursday for a Friday fast.
Wednesdays: Fast in remembrance of Judas’ betrayal — no meat , dairy, eggs, fish, wine, or oil; (shellfish are allowed).
Meals: usually two small meals; often one light meal before evening (with olive oil/wine allowed on certain feast days).
Fridays: Fast in remembrance of Christ’s Passion — same rules as Wednesday (Great Lent Fridays can be stricter).
Fasting Exceptions: feast days, health issues, children, pregnant/nursing women, elderly.
The fasting discipline may be relaxed, if necessary, when one is travelling, ill, or receiving another’s hospitality.
Overview of fasting, in general:
Fasting is not the act of “self-denial” so many seem to think it is. We do not fast to bring suffering on ourselves because it “pleases God.” Fasting is not some “law” that wins us favor with God if we endure it. Nor does it bring guilt if we choose to ignore it.
On the contrary! Fasting intimately concerns itself with giving, not giving up. It involves exercising discipline to regain positive control over things we have allowed to rule over us. Things like love of food or money, inclinations toward anger or pride, etc.
Editorial Note: Shellfish, salads, pasta, rice, nuts, berries, fruit and vegetables, etc., are all allowed in these fasts. Don’t worry, you won’t starve!
First Thoughts 