Let’s explore what it really means to feast as a Catholic – especially in the context of Sundays, Solemnities and holidays like the 4th of July. While our culture often associates celebration with indulgence, Beth challenges us to view feasting through a spiritual lens: not as an excuse to binge, but as a joyful rhythm rooted in gratitude, moderation, and intentionality.

This episode walks through Chapter 8 of the Delay and Pray® book and offers a thoughtful reframe of feast days as part of the “Eat Fast Feast” cycle – a sustainable and grace-filled approach to health and holiness.

Feasting as Freedom
Too often, the word feasting is misunderstood. Instead of being a time to glorify God and rejoice in His blessings, feast days can quickly become food-focused events where moderation goes out the window. Beth reminds us that true freedom isn’t found in indulging every craving—it’s found in the ability to enjoy food without being enslaved by it.

Imagine a feast that honors the body and the soul. A perfectly cooked steak, roasted vegetables, a baked potato, a glass of wine, and maybe even a homemade slice of sourdough bread. This kind of meal becomes an act of praise, not overindulgence.

What the Eat Fast Feast Cycle Teaches Us
Beth outlines a weekly rhythm of eating that includes:

• Eating days: Whole, nourishing foods without sugar, flour, or alcohol (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday)
• Fasting days: Intentional fasting for spiritual purposes (Wednesday and Friday)
• Feasting days: Joyful, moderate celebration (Saturday evening and Sunday)

This cycle isn’t a diet—it’s a spiritual framework that honors both sacrifice and celebration. It’s a Catholic way of living that supports both metabolic health and virtue.

Redefining the Word “Feast”
Beth introduces four key traits of a spiritually grounded feast:

• Deliberate: A feast is planned with love and care, not eaten on impulse.
• Sacramental: The meal is centered around gratitude and God’s goodness.
• Moderate: Even feast days require virtue and restraint.
• Joyful: True feasting brings peace, connection, and celebration—not guilt.

She encourages us to think of feasting as a Eucharistic act. When we fast during the week, we arrive at Sunday Mass more spiritually and physically open—hungry for the presence of Christ, not just food.

When You Fall, Begin Again
Beth is honest about the struggles that can come with learning a new rhythm. Overeating will happen. Old habits will creep in. But the goal isn’t perfection—it’s perseverance. That’s why she offers the prayerful reminder: Nunc Coepi—“Now I begin again.”

We’re not striving for flawless food choices. We’re striving to glorify God, learn from our mistakes, and walk forward in grace.

Feast on Life, Not Just Food
Beth invites us to broaden our view of feasting to include more than what’s on our plates. Feasting can mean:

• A walk with your family
• Laughter around the dinner table
• Time in prayer or adoration
• Enjoying nature
• Reading a good book
• Resting without guilt

These moments nourish the soul. When we fast with purpose and feast with joy, we’re not just improving our health—we’re deepening our faith.

As we celebrate our nation’s independence, let’s also celebrate the freedom Christ gives us to live with intention, virtue, and joy. Feast well. Fast faithfully. And let every bite, every rest, every laugh be an offering to God.

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