Week of Prayer + Fasting 2026

It can be tempting to rush ahead as we begin 2026, but let's start by making space for God to speak. Our Week of Prayer & Fasting is January 12–16; an opportunity to slow down and practice hearing God’s voice as a church family.

And join us January 14 for our next churchwide Prayer Night, a perfect midweek encouragement in your prayer and fasting journey!

A Daily Prayer Guide will be made available online and in print at your campus Information Desk starting January 10. FAC family, let’s begin the year listening for what God wants to say to us.

Getting Ready: About Fasting

Fasting, in its simplest definition, is understood as “voluntary abstinence from food or drink, especially as a religious duty.” As followers of Jesus, the purpose of all spiritual disciplines, including fasting, is to help us become more like Jesus. We follow in His footsteps. Fasting helps us, both personally and corporately, become aware of how God desires to work in us and through us.

We should never be motivated by the idea that our fasting will move God to do what we want; we can't manipulate God. The purpose of our fasting is to draw us closer to God and to seek His will for our lives.

When God’s people fast with the right posture of seeking His will with a humble and repentant spirit, amazing things happen! This is our moment. We’re going to pray and fast as a church community. We’re going to seek God’s will for our lives, our church, our communities, our country, and our world.

Deciding How Long

Choose either a 1-, 3-, or 5-day fast from food or another significant comfort item. Ask the Holy Spirit to lead and guide you when making this decision. Beginners are advised to start slowly.

• Keep yourself hydrated at all times.

• Drink plenty of water and juices.

• Remember to replace your time of eating with prayer and reflecting on Scripture.

What to Expect

When you fast, your body detoxifies, eliminating toxins from your system. This can cause mild discomfort, such as headaches and irritability, during withdrawal from caffeine and sugar. And naturally, you’ll have hunger pains. Limit your activity and exercise moderately; take time to rest.

You’re following Jesus’ example when you fast. Pray as often as you can throughout the day. Get away from the usual distractions as much as possible and keep your heart and mind set on seeking God’s will for us.

As you enter this time of heightened spiritual devotion, be aware that Satan will do everything he can to pull you away from your prayer and Bible reading time. When you feel the enemy trying to discourage you, immediately go to God in prayer and ask Him to strengthen you in the face of difficulties and temptations.

Ending a Fast

Don’t overeat when the time comes to end your fast. This can cause nausea, stomach aches, or diarrhea. Introducing regular foods slowly will help you break a fast safely, without disrupting your digestive system.

Words of Caution

Please consult your family physician before attempting to fast if you have a physical condition that’s affected by your food intake, have any type of chronic illness, and/or are taking any kind of prescription medications. If you’re unsure whether you should participate for any reason, please consult your family physician.

Infants and small children should not fast. Older children who can understand fasting can participate by choosing a food they usually have each day and giving that up during the fast. The important thing is to explain to them that we are giving up something to focus on God.