2003 FAST Guidelines
You are invited to fast

During these 40 hours you are invited to go without solid food for one or more meals, for the time between sunrise and sunset on March 6th, for the entire 40 hours or for the time between meals.

Why a 40-hour time period for prayer, reflection and action?
The number 40 has special significance in both religious and labor traditions. For Christians, the 40 days of Lent are meant to be a time of prayer and reflection, sacrifice and transformation. The season is rooted in Jesus' 40 days of fasting and the Israelites' wandering in the desert for 40 years. The 40-hour work week, which created "the weekend" for most workers in the U.S. was won after years of organizing and struggle by the labor movement.

How to fast
The Labor-Religion Fast asks you to not eat solid food during the 40 hours or during a period you identify. It is important to drink plenty of liquids while fasting. In your hunger, you are asked to take action, "to hunger for justice" so that on-going and persistent hunger in New York State may be alleviated.
It is hoped you will invite others (family members, co-workers, your religious congregation, your union brothers and sisters, etc.) to join the Fast. Call 518/ 213-6000, ext. 6294 for more brochures.
Fasters need not change their normal schedule; however, you are encouraged to join with others in your local area for an opening of the Fast on the evening of March 12. Many groups will also "break the fast" together with a simple noon meal and prayer service following the 40th hour on March 14..

You are invited to join others in 2003 FAST events. Click here for details.