USCCB: pray and fast on Friday for engaged couples
November 07, 2013
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) is asking Catholics to pray, fast, and abstain from meat on Friday, November 8, for engaged couples, “that they may recognize the high calling of their unique vocation to love one another as Christ loves the Church.”
In a reflection published along with the weekly request for prayers, the USCCB notes that “the marriage of one man and one woman is not a temporary contract or something that can be ended if a husband or wife “falls out of love.’” Rather, “the bond of marriage is all-encompassing,” and the marriage vow is indissoluble. Married couples, the USCCB observes, participate in the love of the Trinity, which is eternal.
In December 2012, the US bishops announced a call to prayer and penance whose “overall focus is to invite Catholics to pray for rebuilding a culture favorable to life and marriage and for increased protections of religious liberty. Campaign components include monthly Eucharistic holy hours in cathedrals and parishes, daily family rosary, special Prayers of the Faithful at all Masses, fasting and abstinence on Fridays, and the second observance of a Fortnight for Freedom.” The campaign will last until the conclusion of the Year of Faith.
The Friday prayer and fasting intentions change weekly; the links below describe how to receive the intentions in advance, typically on the afternoon of the previous day.
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Further information:
- Call to Prayer Friday Fast: Intentions and Reflections (USCCB)
- Call to Prayer: Pledge to Fast (USCCB)
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