Fasting of the Senses: Beyond the Dietary Rules

Father Anthony Mourad, focuses on the true spiritual purpose of the 43-day Coptic Orthodox Nativity fast. Drawing heavily from the teachings of Saint John Chrysostom, Fr. Anthony explains that fasting is far more than changing one's diet or switching to vegan alternatives; rather, it requires a complete fasting of the senses, where the eyes, ears, hands, and feet all abstain from sinful habits like gossip, greed, and inappropriate media. Reflecting on the Gospel message of "counting the cost" before building a tower, he urges the congregation to intentionally prepare for the fast by making real sacrifices—such as cutting out social media and worldly entertainment—in order to conquer the self and prioritize their relationship with God above all else.