Fasting With the shepherd of Hermas So many of you have made your Lenten offerings by donating to the Fast of Hermas.  It’s been a great help to us.  This year, upon medical advice, I am unable to fast but we’re asking you to continue the spirit of the Fast of Hermas, possibly fast a little yourself, and keep our Lenten appeal in mind. Hermas was an early Christian, who resided in Rome early in the second century of the Christian Era. A well-to-do freedman, Hermas set down a formula for fasting that continues to resonate today.   “First of all,” he wrote, “be on your guard against every evil word, and every evil desire, and purify your heart from all the vanities of this world. If you guard against these things, your fasting will be perfect.” But Hermas was not finished.  “ . . . and having reckoned up the price of the dishes of that day which you intended to have eaten,” he said, “you will give it to a widow, or an orphan, or to some person in want, and thus you will exhibit humility of mind.”   If you would like to make a pledge please email me at wfd@urbanmissionaries.com. If you would like to participate and do a fast of your own let me know and I will email you the necessary pledge forms to use. Please earmark your check for the Fast of Hermas. Thank you. Have a holy Lent and a very Blessed Easter!!! From all of us to you and yours.