Sensible suggestions

[dhfc1893]

'I tend to practise mortification through food, and when eating out/at friends, always ensure I eat a good portion of something I really don't like, and to endeavour that others aren't aware of my likes and dislikes '

Mine tends to be the same. I will fast from time to time, but I have no set routine. I have often thought I should pay more attention to penance and reading this discussion has only reinforced that.

[Pia]

Welcome, dhfc1893.

I am finding, at this time of year, that the cold is providing me with a ready-made opportunity for penance. Going about the house barefoot yesterday, even when hanging out the washing, was a very useful penance, especially as I never have the heating on in the day. When my husband (non-Catholic, so doesn't share an understanding of penance) comes home, it is different. St. JoseMaria Escriva said that our mortifications should never mortify others, and so, for my husband, I make the house cosy and warm after his day at work
But, as with all penance, it's not about the severity, or the number of different penances we do. It is about the focus of our hearts, which should be on God, and our penance should be carefully and prayerfully brought before God before we embark on anything (IMHO!). One small penance practised sincerely and out of love for our Lord is better than a hundred done with the wrong motives.

Pia <><

[dominic]

I just wanted to say that my family use the obedience jar during Lent, Advent and on some other important days. It's a valuable experience. Before we put our hand in we each pray personally that the Holy Ghost will guide our hand and the others pray that the action drawn out will bring the family member to an even closer understanding of Our Lord's sacrifice for them.

We include some that are specific to one family member, for example my brother Seb is a fanatical footbal fan and Arsenal season ticket holder. So "no football, watching or following, for x days" is tough for him - though I admire him for frequently giving it up anyway during Lent or some of Lent.

As for others, the acions vary from relatively minor (though designed to be reminders of the need for prayer); thorugh serious extra formal prayer such as the penitential psalms (outside Lent: inside Lent we should really say them every day in any event); to strict fasting or the discipine.

Oh and welcome dhfc as well.

[MarinusMartinus]

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[mark]

Could you, if you don't mind, please publish other options, I'm at the moment looking for some.

With "arms outstretched" you mean during the whole rosary (inclusive luminous mysteries) you stretch your arms out? How do you manage to do this?

As a family we are reviewing ours at the momment. when I have a moment I'll post them - or pirvate message them to you if preferred.

By the way welcome to the forum MarinusMartinus. Are you a serving marine?

[scott-m]

I also would be very interested in knowing about the penances you do. Thank you very much.
Scott