What Are Fast Offerings?

By Kimberly Webb

Church Magazines

Verily, this is fasting and prayer, or in other words, rejoicing and prayer (D&C 59:14).

1. Fast Sunday is on the first Sunday of each month. It is a special day to humble ourselves before the Lord by fasting, praying, and attending fast and testimony meeting.

2. On fast Sunday, members of the Church do not eat or drink for two meals. Children may be encouraged to fast when they are old enough.

3. Members donate the money they would have spent on food for the two meals to help the needy. This money is called a fast offering.

4. Members can give fast offerings to one of the bishopric or branch presidency members. The bishop or branch president uses the money to help those in need in his ward or branch.

5. Fast offerings may be used to help feed the hungry.

6. Fast offerings might be used to care for the sick.

7. In each way a fast offering is used, it helps take care of Heavenly Father’s children.

Illustrated by Phyllis Pollema-Cahill