Fasting: John Cassian on Moderation in Fasting

John Cassian (d. 435), who carried the wisdom of the Egyptian Desert Fathers to Western monasticism, warned against extremes in fasting. In his "Conferences," he reported the teaching of Abba Moses: "Unreasonable fasting and excessive abstinence weaken the soul and make it useless for prayer. The body must be given what it needs so that the spirit can do its work." Cassian taught a middle way between indulgence and harsh asceticism.

Cassian wrote: "A reasonable supply of food partaken of each day is better than a severe fast at long intervals. Excessive fasting has been known to produce vanity, while moderate fasting teaches humility." He recommended eating enough to sustain energy for prayer and work, but not so much as to produce sluggishness.

Practical application: If you are new to fasting, begin with a single meal fast -- skip lunch and use the time for prayer. Drink water freely. Avoid the temptation to make fasting a competition or a source of spiritual pride. Cassian's wisdom teaches that sustainable, moderate fasting practiced consistently produces more spiritual growth than dramatic but unsustainable austerity.