"Fast" is derived from the Old
English faestan - to observe, to fast) According to the HarperCollins
Dictionary of Religion fasting is "abstinence from food for a length of
time. A common ascetic practice, it is also a widespread mode of purification
with respect to ritual activities or the restoration of health. ... Partial or
total abstinence from food and drink was institutionalized in early
Christianity for certain days." Fasting was taken for granted by Christ. It is
mentioned in the Book of Common Prayer on pages 13 and 17, but not
referred to in the Prayer Book "Catechism" (pp. 845ff.) In the Anglican
Communion, fasting is encouraged when it benefits the spiritual life of an
individual. Both Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are considered Fast days in the
church calendar. (Some Anglicans believe that modern day fasting is pretentious
piety.)