Bread of Gratitude — Fasting With Purpose: Wednesdays and Fridays in Catholic Life

Why Wednesdays and Fridays?

From the earliest centuries of the Church, Christians have fasted on Wednesdays and Fridays. Wednesday recalls the betrayal of Christ, when Judas conspired against Him, while Friday commemorates the day of His Passion and death. These fasts keep our hearts anchored in the mysteries of redemption and love.

While the Church calls all Catholics to fast especially on certain solemn days, many faithful choose to observe these traditional weekly fasts as a deeper expression of love and penance. Friday, in particular, carries a special significance because it is the day we remember the Cross, the greatest act of love the world has ever known.

What the Church Teaches

The Church’s guidelines on fasting and abstinence are meant to lead us towards simplicity and prayer, not deprivation.

• Fasting traditionally means one full meal a day, with the possibility of two smaller meals that together do not equal a full meal, for those aged 18 to 59 and are in good health.

• Abstinence from meat on Fridays begins at age 14 and continues throughout life.

Now fasting is difficult, and I must admit that I also struggle with following it to the T. However, it is important to remember that fasting is more than food, it is a posture of the heart. It is our way of saying, “Lord, I hunger for You more than anything else.”

Fasting as a Family

While this is even harder than doing it alone, but it can also help encourage us to persevere and pray more as a family. Fasting together has a way to transform an ordinary family life into a sacred rhythm. It teaches us, especially the children self-control, empathy, and reverence. It becomes a day of unity, a shared offering.

During these simple meals, we can pray together, talk about our Lord’ sacrifice, and open our hearts to others in need. Even the humblest loaf of bread can become a prayer when it is shared with love and intention.

The Soul and Salt of Our Table

When we fast, we strip away what is unnecessary, yet what remains can be full of grace. Bread, salt, and water become symbols of trust in God’s provision.

That’s why we are sharing two simple bread recipes to accompany your Wednesday and Friday fasts. One follows the traditional Church-style fasting bread, and the other, a new “Soul and Salt” version, which our family turns to always. It adds a touch of warmth and reflection for families who wish to pray and bake together.

Before you begin, take a quiet moment. Invite Our Lady to be near, and ask the Holy Spirit to fill your home with peace as you knead. As your hands work through the dough, pray slowly, the

“Our Father… Hail Mary… and the Jesus Prayer (“Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.”)”

Let your fasting bread rise not only on the counter but within your soul.

Two Loaves for Fasting Days

Recipe 1 — Bread of Gratitude (Simple Fasting Loaf)

A lean, family-friendly recipe for Wednesday or Friday fasts.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose or bread flour

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp honey or sugar (optional, omit for strict fasts)

• 2 tsp instant yeast

• 1 cup warm water

• 2 tbsp olive oil (symbol of anointing and peace)

• Optional: 1 tsp dried rosemary or thyme

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, honey (if using), and yeast. Let sit 5–10 minutes until frothy.

2. Add flour and salt, mix, then pour in olive oil.

3. Knead about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

4. Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled (≈ 1 hour).

5. Shape into a loaf or round, place on a baking tray, and rest 30 minutes.

6. Bake at 190 °C (375 °F) for 25–30 minutes, until golden.

7. Brush lightly with olive oil while warm for a soft crust.

Tip: Pray an Our Father or Hail Mary as you knead. Let the rhythm of prayer bless the work of your hands.

Recipe 2 — Traditional Catholic Fasting Bread

A hearty version based on fasting traditions used by religious communities and Catholic homes worldwide.

Ingredients

• 3 cups white flour

• 4 cups whole-wheat flour

• 1 pkg (≈ 2 ¼ tsp) dry yeast

• ½ cup lukewarm water

• 2 cups hot water

• 1 tbsp salt

• 2 tbsp sugar or honey

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp butter (optional, omit for strict fasts)

• 1 beaten egg (optional, omit for strict fasts)

• 1 cup raisins or diced apple

• 1 cup almonds or walnuts

• 1 cup rolled oats

Instructions

1. Dissolve yeast in lukewarm water and let stand until bubbly.

2. In a large bowl, mix both flours and make a well in the centre.

3. Combine salt, sugar or honey, olive oil, butter (if using), and hot water in a separate bowl.

4. Pour both the yeast mixture and liquid ingredients into the flour.

5. Stir in oats, nuts, and raisins. Mix and knead until combined.

6. Let rise 1–1 ½ hours until doubled.

7. Divide into loaves and place in greased tins or on a lined baking tray.

8. Bake at 190 °C (375 °F) for about 35 minutes, until golden and hollow when tapped.

Note: This bread is rich and sustaining, thus ideal for partial fasts or for families breaking a day of abstinence together.

Serving Idea

Serve simply, with lentil soup, vegetables, or olive oil for dipping.
Keep the table free from distraction, and let gratitude be your feast.

“Give us this day our daily bread.”

— Matthew 6:11

God provides — always enough, always in love.

May this Bread of Gratitude fill your home with peace, prayer, and the sweet smell of God’s presence.
💛 From our table to yours,
The Catholic Gemz Family