For what kind of candour is it that quotes an epistle which scarcely one of the monkish herd would acknowledge to be genuine? Those who have read this silly production know that it speaks only of Lent, and chrism, and tapers, and fast and festival days, which began to creep in under the influence of superstition and ignorance long after the days of Ignatius.
John Calvin, The Clear Explanation of Sound Doctrine Concerning the True Partaking of the Flesh and Blood of Christ in the Holy Supper in J. K. S. Reid ed., Calvin: Theological Treatises (Westminster John Knox Press, 1954), 293.
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Is it an error to practice fasting or special meditation during Lent without demanding others do so?
I would not presume to try to govern someone’s conscience without clear warrant from God’s Word. What is troubling is that P&R churches are promoting Lent.
As a pastor and a teacher I would discourage Reformed Christians from practicing Lent privately on the grounds that it is an ecclesiastical season without warrant in God’s Word and one that sets the bar too low.
Take a look at this piece on Lent and see if it helps.