Fasting

[Daniel]

The eating of blood or of strangled animals (which have not been bled - and by extension roadkill, or deer or other hunted animals that have not been properly field-dressed and bled) is specifically forbidden by the Apostles in Acts 15:20 – but not just because the Apostles were referring to that which was offered to idols. The fathers make a strong connection between blood and passions. Foods that contain blood stir the passions and so we refrain from them when fasting. Conversely, the invocation and strengthening of the passions was (and still is) the very reason such fare was/is used by pagans.

Shellfish and other invertebrates do not have blood (as we know it) and so in consuming them we do not consume a food that invigorates the passions. This is why they are not prohibited on fast days. Refraining from foods which contain blood facilitates the weakening of the passions. Fish has blood but typically not bloody flesh. Fish is allowed on great feasts during fasting periods when the Vigil is served - such as yesterday, Friday, for St Nicholas Day. The reason is for strengthening and the subsequent refreshing in festal joy after the labor of the long services.

in Christ,
pr Mark

So, then are dairy products just added by extension?

[David]

I want to thank everyone who has responded to my initial post that began this topic- it's been a wonderful font of information so far. Priest Mark's statements were particularly in depth and what I was looking for.
God bless!
David

[Tessa]

I fasted very strict when my last child was still nursing and also got very weak and began to bruise terribly. He was eating regular food too so I thought I could swing it but ended up giving up all except Wed and Fri. But I would talk to your priest, like I should have too.

In Christ,
Tessa

[user_245]

When I was pregnant with my son my priest gave me permission to not fast throughout my pregnancy and while I was nursing. He told me my child's health was more important than fasting. He has also given our parrish permission to not fast before communion IF we are on medication that you must take with food. Again, our health is more important.

[Savva24]

I fasted very strict when my last child was still nursing and also got very weak and began to bruise terribly.
Tessa

Ah... Please don't do that again.

[Justin2]

The best thing anyone can do is ask their Spiritual Father.

[romiosini]

Lord Have Mercy!