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Nativity Fast, also known as Philip's Fast, is a 40-day period before Christmas dedicated to preparing for the arrival of the Messiah. It starts on November 15th, following St. Philip's feast, and lasts until December 24th. This period involves fasting, prayer, reading Scripture, increased attendance at church liturgical services, and participating in the holy mystery of penance (confession) in order to help us fully comprehend the significance of Christ's coming.
The Church has traditionally emphasized four ways to practice self-denial as Christians, regardless of our life circumstances. These include prayer, fasting, almsgiving, and love. By actively incorporating these disciplines during the fast, we align ourselves more closely with Christ as we celebrate the joy of His Nativity. Here are some suggestions for applying these four forms of self-denial during the Nativity fast.
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Prayer: Allocate 15 minutes in the morning and evening daily for prayer. Use the Jesus Prayer, "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me a sinner." Place a Nativity icon in your designated prayer area and spend 10 minutes each day reflecting on the redemptive aspects of Christ's Birth. Seek the Mystery of Repentance (Confession) at least once during the fast.
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Fasting: Abstain from meat on Wednesdays and Fridays at the least. Fast from certain foods, such as soda, alcoholic beverages or candy. With each meal, eat only an amount that is sufficient for nutritional needs, without feeling full. Fast from select forms of entertainment (television, movies, radio, internet, novels, etc.). See below for customary fasting options.*
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Almsgiving: Contribute to a parish outreach or charity by giving your time, talent, or treasure. Increase your stewardship to the church during this season. Declutter your home and donate excess items to those in need. Buy gifts for homeless or underprivileged children and families.
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Love: Reflect on the Ten Commandments or Beatitudes and practice one or two each week. Evaluate your actions each night, seeking forgiveness from God and others. Share your faith with others. Commit to a modest fast, abstaining from meat on Wednesdays and Fridays, engaging in devotions, and reading Scripture to prepare for the Nativity of Christ.
*During this fast, it was customary to abstain strictly on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, and to have a lesser abstinence on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The Ruthenian Metropolia considers this period a penitential season, which can be observed voluntarily, partially, or completely.
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