Thursday evening, November 17, at 7:00 PM we will come together again to explore the practice of fasting. 

Fasting is a willing abstinence or reduction from some or all food, drink, or both, for a period of time. An absolute fast (dry fasting) is normally defined as abstinence from all food and liquid for a defined period, usually a period of 24 hours, or a number of days. Water fasting allows drinking water but nothing else. Other fasts may be partially restrictive, limiting only particular foods or substances. A fast may also be intermittent in nature. Fasting practices may preclude intercourse and other activities as well as food.

In Methodism, fasting is considered one of the Works of Piety. Historically, Methodist clergy are required to fast on Wednesdays, in remembrance of the betrayal of Christ, and on Fridays, in remembrance of His crucifixion and death. "The General Rules of the Methodist Church," written by the founder of Methodism, John Wesley, wrote that "It is expected of all who desire to continue in these societies that they should continue to evidence their desire of salvation, by attending upon all the ordinances of God, such are: the public worship of God; the ministry of the Word, either read or expounded; the Supper of the Lord; family and private prayer; searching the Scriptures; and fasting or abstinence." Wesley himself also fasted before receiving Holy Communion "for the purpose of focusing his attention on God," and asked other Methodist Christians to do the same. 

In accordance with Scripture and the teachings of the Church Fathers, fasting in Methodism is done "from morning until evening". The historic Methodist homilies regarding the Sermon on the Mount also stressed the importance of the Lenten fast.

from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fasting

Thursday evening we will discuss the theological reasons for fasting, the practice, and alternate ways of fasting.