1- Introduction

Fasting is an important topic for all, as almost all nations and religions practice some form of fasting. Fasting was even established in man's doctrine before people became different nations. Fasting even goes back to the time of Adam and Eve.

It is not the intention of this book to tackle the subject of fasting from a theoretical point of view but for spiritual benefit.

We aim to discuss the spiritual concepts of fasting and the appropriate conduct during such a period, for our concern is your spiritual growth in God's love.

Many lectures were delivered during and on the subject of fasting. From these, we have selected fifteen to form the topics of this book.

These topics are:

• Two lectures about fasting given on 8/8/1969 and 8/15/1969, one at Giza on Saturday 3/8/1970, and one in February 1971.

• Two lectures about fasting on 2/22/1974 and 11/29/1974.

• Two lectures entitled “Consecrate a fast “ on 2/18/1977 and 11/30/1979.

• A lecture entitled "A Period of Adherence to God" on 3/4/1977.

• Two lectures about Lent in February 1978.

• A lecture about Lent on 2/8/1980.

• A lecture entitled "We rejoice when we fast" on 5/30/1989.

• A lecture on "The Spirituality of Fasting" on 7/3/1981.

• A lecture delivered at the Monastery on 2/20/1982.

We have put these lectures in one book, which we hereby present to you.

Pope Shenouda III