Re: >^..^< The cats on Candlemas 2008

On Feb 3, 12:45=EF=BF=BDam, db...@[EMAIL PROTECTED]
 ("David G. Bell") wrote:

> Is Lent about giving something up, or about doing something special?
> I've one of those fuzzy memories of a past conversation that suggests
> that the idea of "giving up X for Lent" is an over-simplification.

Indeed. "Giving up something " is not actually a requirement, just
something that many do.

Most Catholics dread the "fasting". That is THE requirement, although
much modified to be easier nowadays. Not like the good old days of the
Black Fast.

(Black fast =3D no meat, fish, eggs, or dairy products for the 40 days.
One meal only allowed, and that after sundown. Did we mention
breakfast? No, and that means no breakfast.)

One should also be generous in almsgiving, and do extra devotions.
What this means in practice is up to you.