Prayer is a universal phenomenon, the fundamental and inseparable element of every religion and every personal piety...The believer not only believes that the infinite and invisible God exists, but that He also reveals Himself to people. It is through this revelation (apocalypse) of God that it becomes possible for man to have a personal communion with God.

Do you fast?

Do you fast? Give me proof of it by your works. If you see a poor man, take pity on him. If you see a friend being honored, do not envy him. Do not let only your mouth fast, but also the eyes and the ears and the feet and the hands and all the members of our bodies. Let the hands fast, by being free of avarice. Let the eyes fast, by disciplining them not to glare at that which is sinful. Let the ears fast, by not listening to evil talk and gossip.

The Mystery (Sacrament) of Repentance is a grace-giving rite in which, after the faithful offer repentance of their sins, the remission of sins is bestowed by the mercy of God through the intermediary of a pastor (priest) of the Church, in accordance with the Savior's promise.