Hello BASIC, eveytime I see or smell spag, I would remember our 12 o’clock spaghetti. Infact, haponan ko ngayon spag, so I was eating with a smile.

Bytheway, I would like to share some thoughts about Lenten Celebration and the observance of Fasting and Abstinence. Lent starts with Ash Wednesday,(the first of forty-six days of Lenten Fast before Easter) On this day, all the Catholic faithful, according to ancient custom, approach the altar where the priest, dipping his thumb into previously blessed ashes, marks the forehead of each person with the sign of the cross and says these ancient words: “Remember that thou art dust and undo dust thou shall return.” Sa tagalog joke of Bro Zaldy “Mamatay ka rin.”

Fasting and Abstinence are stictly observed on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. The other Fridays of Lent are days of Abstinence. On a day of Fast, only one full meal is permitted. Those between the ages of 18 and 59 are obliged to fast. On a day of abstinence, NO MEAT may be eaten. (example karne norte/corned beef)

Those who have reached the age of 14 are obliged by the law of abstinence. The obligation to observe the laws of fast and abstinence “substantially”, or as a whole, is a serious obligation. (Bytheway, wag nyo dayain edad nyo, kasi hindi na tayo mukha under 14 or under 18 except Bobby.) hehehe

The Fridays of the year, outside lent, are designated as days of penance, but individuals may substitute for the traditional abstinence from meat some other practice of voluntary self-denial as penance,or works of mercy, acts of piety and acts of charity.

Bytheway, over age, under age and the sick individuals are exempted to the rules.

What about “The Balut”? Can we eat “Balut” on the days of abstinence? I think this is open for discussion. Is there somebody who like to share his/her thought on the “Balut”?

God bless you all in the family.

Fr. Robert