Pray and Fast

Pope John Paul II taught:

“Jesus Himself has shown us by His own example that prayer and fasting are the first and most effective weapons against the forces of evil (cf. Mt 4:1-11). As He taught His disciples, some demons cannot be driven out except in this way (cf. Mk 9:29)” (Gospel of Life, 100).

Given today’s rampant confusion, Church leaders are calling upon the faithful to pray and fast for the Church that She might be protected from error.

Fasting

Fasting is often the fastest way to accomplish anything. When God calls us to fast, more can be done in a short time than in years.

Fasting sets us free (Is 58:6). Even Ahab, the worst sinner in the world, was temporarily freed from destruction by turning to fasting (1 Kg 21:25-29). The Ninevites were also freed from imminent destruction through fasting (Jon 3:5-10). Esther’s fasting helped free the Jewish nation from extermination (Est 4:16). Joel announced the same call (Jl 2:15). All these people knew the secret. Fasting frees us from the most impossible circumstances, even from Satan.

Because fasting can make an average person more powerful spiritually than religious leaders, political figures, and billionaires, Satan will make fasting as difficult as possible. However, the Lord’s grace will give you victory.

According to the tradition of the Church, fasting consists in eating only one full meal during the day, and additionally, one may eat up to two smaller meals. Fasting on bread and water is also recommended to those who are able to do so.

Prayer

James 5:16-18 declares, “…The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.” God invites us to use prayer as we seek not only personal transformation but the transformation of the world as well. Here are four prayers you can employ on behalf of the Church and Her leaders.

Sub Tuum Praesidium

We turn to you for protection, Holy Mother of God. Listen to our prayers and help us in our needs. Save us from every danger, glorious and blessed Virgin.

St. Michael

St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our defense against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray, and do thou, O Prince of heavenly hosts, by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan, and all evil spirits, who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls.

Protection from Error

O God, you who have established the foundations of your Church upon the holy mountains: Grant that she may not be moved by any wiles of error which would fain compass her overthrow, nor may she be shaken by any earthly disquietude, but ever stand firmly upon the ordinances of the Apostles, and by their help, be kept in safety.

Rebuke Satan

Heavenly Father, I ask You in the name, and through the Blood of Your Divine Son, to rebuke Satan for taking captive that which belongs to You. I ask Jesus to place His Crown of thorns around Your Church and Her leaders so that those with wrong influences will lose interest and depart. Mary Mother of Jesus, place your mantle of love around our priests and bishops.