Preaching the pillars of Lent: Fasting

What is fasting for? What biblical precedent do we have for the practices of fasting and abstinence? And how can preachers steer between the two extremes of self-punishment and loophole hunting? “Preach” concludes its Lent 2026 series on the three classical pillars of the season with a conversation on fasting. Host Ricardo da Silva, S.J. is joined by James Keane — senior editor at America and a writer who has spent some time reflecting and writing on what fasting is and what it’s for. Timecodes: 0:00 What’s fasting for? 2:00 The Brazilian loophole to abstinence during Lent: capibara 3:55 What does the church teach on fasting and abstinence? 6:53 Fasting is meant to bring you closer to God 8:35 Biblical citations of fasting 11:05 Fasting evolved alongside seasons of food scarcity and abundance 14:10 St. Ignatius’ fervour for fasting 16:10 Avoiding the two extremes of self-punishment vs. loophole hunting 18:58 Pope Leo XIV’s message this Lent James Keane’s articles on fasting: On fasting: The difference between our preaching and our practice 7 things you never knew about fasting --- Support this podcast by becoming a subscriber. Visit ⁠⁠⁠americamagazine.org/subscribe⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices