Vacationing During Lent

DG writes: First I have to say that I very much enjoy your emails. I am a Catholic and we are going away for our vacation on a cruise Feb. 17th. We will be sailing on Sunday and if there is not a Priest on the Ship we cannot attend Sunday Mass. Will that be ok? I am sure hoping there will be a Catholic Priest on board. And also Wed of that week is Ash Wednesday. What is the policy of the Church when one is on vacation. Do we have to fast that day? And another question regarding fasting -- on a fast day can we drink beverages in between our meals like coffee, tea, soda or does that break the fast? Thank you for answering my questions and have a blessed day.

HSI replies: If there is no Priest on board, you can always spend an hour in prayer. Pray to the Holy Spirit. Then read the Sunday readings and reflect on them and share your reflections with your family or frends, if possible. Pray for the needs of others. Ask Jesus to show you how you can share him and his love with others on board in some practical way.

On Ash Wednesday we fast which means we have one full meal and one small meal. You can also have a cup of tea in the morning and evening. The spirit behind this is of more importance. It is to remind ourselves that Jesus died for us and that we also have to empty ourselves to be life-giving to others in word and deed. So it is good to pray, sacrifice and share Jesus with others in some practical wayof kindness or help or concern.

I hope this answers your questions. Wish you a very pleasant cruise and a happy vacation.