PDF for printout of the following:

LENTEN Regulations & LENTEN Liturgical Notes for 2026 

GUIDELINES FOR FAST AND ABSTINENCE

Lenten fast and abstinence regulations for the Diocese of Worcester are as follows:
Abstinence from meat is to be observed by all Catholics fourteen (14) years of age and older on Ash Wednesday, Good Friday and all the Fridays of Lent.
Fasting is to be observed by all Catholics who are eighteen (18) years of age but not yet fifty-nine (59) years of age on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday.
Those who are bound to fast may take only one full meal. Two smaller meals are permitted if necessary to maintain strength according to one's needs, but eating solid foods between meals is not permitted. Catholics should not lightly excuse themselves from these prescribed Lenten penitential practices.

ASH WEDNESDAY

The Order for the Blessing and Distribution of Ashes normally takes place during the celebration of Mass. However, when circumstances require, the blessing and distribution of ashes may take place outside of Mass and must always include a celebration of the Liturgy of the Word and blessing of the ashes (as described in the Romal Missal for Ash Wednesday or in the Book of Blessings). Ashes may not be distributed apart from one of these liturgical services. Extraordinary ministers of the Eucharist and other lay persons may assist in the imposition of ashes when there is a true pastoral need.

RITE OF ELECTION

The Rite of Election of Catechumens and Call to Continuing Conversion of Candidates will be celebrated on Sunday, February 22 at 3:00 P.M. in Saint Paul's Cathedral. This celebration is among the mandatory rites of adult initiation, as the Bishop is the one who calls these catechumens and candidates in the name of the Church to Easter sacraments. Online registration is available through the website: https://worcesterdiocese.org/rite-of-election by February 9.

LENTEN RITES FOR CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS

The Scrutinies are to be celebrated for the elect who will be initiated at the Easter Vigil. These rites are not optional and are preferably celebrated on the 3rd, 4th and 5th Sundays of Lent respectively using the readings from Cycle A. The bishop may dispense a candidate, for serious reason, from one of the scrutinies, or at most two in extraordinary circumstances. Presentations of the Creed and the Lord's Prayer take place during the 3rd and 5th weeks of Lent. The celebration of the Optional Rites for Holy Saturday morning are also encouraged.

For detailed information on these rites refer to Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (paragraphs 157 - 205) and also to our diocesan guidelines, Journey in Faith (paragraphs 40 - 43).