When You Fast: The Why and How of Christian Self-Discipline – Christian Life – Book
by L. Joseph Letendre
In this companion volume to the popular When You Pray, L. Joseph Letendre explores the underpinnings of the Church’s practice of fasting and of ascetic discipline in general. Rather than being preoccupied with the details of food regulations, he helps the reader understand the purpose of fasting and how to enter into it more willingly and fully.
About the Author: L. Joseph Letendre is the author of When You Pray from Ancient Faith Publishing as well as the popular guide, Preparing for Confession. His writing has also appeared in Touchstone, The Reformation and Revival Journal, and St. Vladimir’s Theological Quarterly. He recorded the audiobook of St. Nicholai Velimirovic’s Prayers by the Lake for AFP. He holds degrees in psychology, philosophy, and education, as well as an MDiv from St. Vladimir’s Seminary. He is a parishioner at All Saints Antiochian Orthodox Church in Chicago, IL.
Paperback: 104 pages
Praise for When You Fast
“This excellent ‘how-to’ on how and why to fast is just what I need, and I’ve recommended it to family and friends (who need it less than I do). The book is a valuable distillation of the Orthodox mind about fasting, all of it prayerful and profound despite its brevity. No fat whatsoever! This should be on the reading table of every Orthodox Christian.” -Deacon Nicholas Dujmovic, Orthodox Church in America, and professor at Catholic University in Washington, D.C.
“When You Fast is a vibrant summons to follow one of the most basic teachings of the Gospels, as well as an encouraging and practical guide for doing so. Because almost everything we hear and see around us seems to promote the world, the flesh and the devil, Christian self-discipline is needed more than ever. Read this book and put it into practice. You and those around you will benefit.” –James M. Kushiner, Executive Editor, Touchstone: A Journal of Mere Christianity
“Joseph Letendre’s When You Fast is a guidebook for experienced Orthodox Christians, those new to the Faith, or those questioning why we Orthodox fast. A must read before each fast, it’s a perfect reminder that fasting is not only an obedience, but a grace-filled privilege.” – Cynthia Damaskos, Holistic Christian Life/Filled With Less
