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Ember Days: Balance & Light

If you have a church calendar, you will know that this past Wednesday and today are Ember Days.

Ember Days occur four times a year: on the Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday following the First Sunday of Lent, the Day of Pentecost, Holy Cross Day, and the third Sunday of Advent.

Why focus on these dates? They align with the rhythms of nature and the Church calendar.
They remind us to give thanks for God’s creation.  From spring’s fresh blooms to winter’s quiet stillness, Ember days are tied to the unique gifts of the seasons.

But Ember days are not just about nature. They are also about our spiritual growth.  Traditionally, they involve fasting and abstinence.  They allow a way to reset, to focus on what’s important, and to pray for specific needs, such as vocations in the Church.

At first glance, Ember days might sound like relics of the past; but their purpose makes them surprisingly relevant today. 

  • Ember days remind us that God’s creation is not just background scenery—it’s worth celebrating!
    Ember days align with nature in a way that feels refreshing in our screen-dominated, fast-paced world.  These days encourage us to pause and notice the beauty of each season, whether it’s the budding flowers of spring or the golden leaves of autumn. 

  • Ember days foster a sense of gratitude.
    They encourage us to turn our attention to the blessings of each season, to see the divine connection between God’s gifts and our everyday lives. They help us reconnect with both the world around us and the faith within us.

  • Ember days offer what could be called a 'spiritual detox'.
    They call us to go deeper than the trendy concept of self-care. Through fasting and prayer, they invite us to step back from the noise of daily life and focus on what truly matters.  It is not just about skipping meals; it’s about practicing self-discipline and making space for spiritual growth.

Observing Ember days easily fits into our daily routine without complication. 

  • Spend some time outdoors to enjoy the season’s beauty and reflect on God’s creation.

  • Share the blessings of the season with by helping others, whether by donating food, sharing a meal, or offering a helping hand to a neighbour in need.

  • Practice self-denial and discipline to better understand the plight of those who endure hunger and must get by with less.

  • Pray with intention for vocations in the Church and discover (or rediscover) your own God-given gifts and purpose.

  • Reconnect spiritually with God through the sacraments.
    Receive communion; make a confession and seek absolution, or ask for the laying on hands and anointing for healing.

Ember days might not be on everyone’s calendar, but they are far from outdated! Their focus on gratitude, self-reflection, and connection to creation is more important than ever. 

Take a step back, embrace the tradition, and see how Ember Days can bring a little light—and maybe even a little balance—into your busy world.

Peace.

Norman+

 

 

 

Art Work:
Ember Days
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=USlzXvgdNDs