Lenten Activities: Have a Poor Man’s Meal for Dinner

What is a Poor Man’s Meal?

Fasting is one of the traditional Lenten practices for Catholics. One way to fast is to have a poor man’s meal. Instead of a full dinner, have a simple bowl of soup and a few crackers. This method of fasting is a way to express solidarity with the hungry and homeless in our community.

This meal might leave you feeling a little hungry. Think of how it must feel not to know where your next meal is coming. Feel hungry for the Kingdom of God. Feel hungry for peace and justice in our nation. Feel hungry for Easter.

So consider having a poor man’s meal instead of a full meal during Lent. Do it just once. Do it once a week. Or do it daily.

Our social justice ministry at our parish had a Lenten discussion series on racial reconciliation one year. At the series, a poor man’s meal was served and participants are asked to make a donation. The proceeds were given to a local soup kitchen program.