"Didache" is the Catechism of the Church published in the first century. At that time, the Church already asked Catholics to observe fasting on Wednesdays and Fridays. Only later, Catholics were asked to fast on Fridays only. <br/><br/>
When Jesus first began his missionary work, he fasted in the wilderness for 40 days from food and water. Traditionally, the Church teaches that fasting is to eat only one full meal per day. Abstinence means the giving up of meat. <br/><br/>
Our Blessed Mother Mary told the seers in Medugorje, “The best way of fasting is by bread and water. Through fasting and prayer, wars can be stopped, even laws of nature can be changed. Acts of charity cannot replace fasting. However, those who cannot fast can sometimes replace it with prayer, act of charity and receiving the sacrament of reconciliation. Except for the sick, everyone should fast.” *<br/><br/>
Two years later, Mother Mary said that we should fast on Wednesdays and Fridays and say three decades of Rosary everyday.”** In September of that year, Mother Mary requested, “I would like you to fast with your whole heart. Since God permits me to stay with you, you should fast with a thankful heart.” *** <br/><br/>
Traditionally, the Church observes a special dedication to the Holy Eucharist on Thursdays. Our Blessed Mother Mary asked her children to fast on Wednesdays and Fridays with bread. According to Sr. Emmanuel’s explanation, **** Our Lady is willing to let her children have a close relationship with Jesus Christ, her Son. It is because the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist is made by bread. When we eat bread, we will remember Jesus Christ within the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist.<br/><br/>
*July 21, 1982
**Aug 14, 1984
***Sept 20, 1984
****She is the one that ran the mission Children of Medjugorje