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FAQ about Fasting and the 30 Hour Famine
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it safe to not eat for 30 hours?
A: Yes! The human body is a remarkable machine – it will be a bit uncomfortable, but safe. By fasting, you begin to feel the pain that many children feel throughout the world every day.
Q: Are there other groups doing the Famine?
A: Yes! Over ONE MILLION young people will be participating in the Famine this year throughout the United States.
Q: Can we drink soda? Coffee? Tea? Water?
A: We will have water available for those who would like to drink water but nothing else.
Q: Where will be sleep at night?
A: The facility we’re using this year is a large room/hall. We will be sleeping on the floor in sleeping bags. Bring a sleeping bag and pillow with you.
Q: Can I go out for a hamburger after everyone goes to sleep?
A: No.
Q: Does Jesus say anything about doing the Famine?
A: Yes! Jesus talks about fasting and how important it is in the life of a Christian. More importantly, Jesus asks us to show our LOVE for one another by feeding the hungry and helping the poor. See the Gospel of Matthew chapter 25. Here are some Bible passages that talk about fasting: Matthew 6:16-18, Matthew 9:16-17, Matthew 17:20-21, Daniel 9:3, 20, Ezra 8:21-23, Isaiah 58, Judges 20:26-28, Psalms 35:13, Mark 9:29.
Q: Will there be any “down time”?
A: Yes! Between classes, discussions and films, there will be time for private reflection. Also, if you have homework, bring it along.
Q: Can I leave the Famine and come back?
A: No. Once you’ve registered, you’re there until the end.
Q: I’ve heard that people faint and light headed from fasting.
A: Sometimes it gets uncomfortable, but we will have adult supervision to monitor everyone throughout the Famine.
Q: How come we’re giving money to World Vision? Who are they?
A: World Vision is the largest, privately funded Christian non-profit relief and development organization in the world. It is dedicated to meeting the needs of children, families, and their communities worldwide. World Vision was started 50 years ago and is helping about 60 million people -- the poorest of the poor -- each year in nearly 100 countries. Famine funds provide emergency relief as well as long-term assistance to help people overcome widespread poverty overseas and in the United States. World Vision maintains strict standards of financial responsibility and is held accountable by the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability. Overall, more than 80 percent of the total gifts received go directly to help those in need. Donations to the 30 Hour Famine are tax deductible. A receipt will be given for gifts of $250 or more or upon request. For lesser amounts, a canceled check serves as proof of donated funds and is accepted as such by the Internal Revenue Service.
Q: I heard that the World Vision is trying to undermine the Armenian Church. Is this true?
A: No. World Vision’s 30 Hour Famine was selected by Fr. Vazken as the means by which to offer help because of World Vision’s standards and mission. Following the Armenian earthquake in 1988, World Vision assisted in providing food and shelter to the people. In fact, His Holiness Karekin II, the Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians (that’s the head of the Armenian Church) has complimented the work of World vision on several occasion. Read for yourself at http://www.wvarmenia.am/christian_impact.htm