CBCP to Catholics: ‘Fast’ from digital media this Lent
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) is calling on the faithful to practice fasting—not from food, but from too much use of phones and social media—as an act of penance this coming lenten season.
In a pastoral letter issued on Monday, the CBCP invited Filipino Catholics to “undertake a digital media fasting as a contemporary expression of conversion and renewal” given the “new realities” that are now shaping human life.
Practicing digital media fasting includes avoiding the use of phones before sleeping and after waking, limiting social media and streaming time, observing device-free meals and gatherings, and removing distracting apps from one’s devices.
While fasting traditionally means abstaining from food as an act of repentance and spiritual renewal, the CBCP said the act can also be understood as a way of “detaching from whatever distracts our hearts from God.”
“True fasting, as Jesus teaches, is not an external performance but an interior conversion. Digital media fasting, therefore, invites a rediscovery of silence, prayer, contemplation, and authentic relationships. It is not meant to punish the body but to free the heart,” it said.
Excessive use
According to the CBCP, many people have become distracted and disoriented in their lives due to the excessive use of digital technology, causing fatigue, weakened relationships, and diminished spiritual awareness.
“Constant connectivity leaves little room for silence and reflection. Many struggle to be present to God and others because screens constantly demand attention. Digital media fasting helps restore balance and reminds us that technology must serve human life—not dominate it,” it said.
By limiting digital media consumption, the group said the faithful can have more time for prayer and eucharistic devotion, as well as conducting “works of mercy” and creating meaningful encounters with others.
“Digital media fasting is not simply about giving something up. It is about making room for something better,” said the CBCP.
As Lent begins on Feb. 18, Ash Wednesday, the group encouraged all dioceses, parishes, families, and communities to promote digital media fasting during and after the holy season.
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