Preparing for Catholic Fall Ember Days: Faith, Fasting & Family Traditions
As we move through the warmth of late summer, the Church invites us to begin preparing for a quieter, more reflective moment in the liturgical calendar: the Catholic Fall Ember Days.
These special days—observed on the Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday following the Feast of the Holy Cross (September 14)—offer Catholic families a beautiful opportunity to pause, pray, and practice gratitude before the busyness of fall truly begins.
At GiftsWithLove.com, we’re here to help you mark these days meaningfully—with faith-filled gifts, thoughtful routines, and traditions that bring your family closer to God and each other.
What Are the Fall Ember Days?
Ember Days are a long-standing Catholic tradition observed four times a year—once per season—as a way to thank God for the gifts of nature, to pray for the clergy, and to refocus spiritually through prayer, fasting, and acts of charity.
The Fall Ember Days come at a meaningful time: the agricultural harvest is nearing, school routines have returned, and the Church reminds us to center our hearts again on faith and purpose.
These days are not just about abstaining from certain meals—they’re about intentionally slowing down, remembering God’s blessings, and creating holy moments in everyday life.
Ways to Prepare for Fall Ember Days as a Family
Even in the lingering warmth of summer, we can begin preparing for these sacred days with simple, family-friendly traditions that make space for prayer and gratitude.
Create a Prayerful Atmosphere at Home
Set aside a corner of your home with a personalized wall cross, a rosary, or a decorative scripture sign to anchor your Ember Day reflections. Lighting a candle during family prayer time can help make these moments feel set apart and holy.
Customer Favorite: Resin Stone Celtic Cross – A beautiful focal point for seasonal prayer.
Keep a Gratitude Journal
Fall Ember Days are an ideal time to teach children (and remind ourselves!) to count blessings. Keep a family faith journal where each person can write something they’re grateful for or pray about during these days.
Suggested Gift: "Good Morning God" Journal – A meaningful tool for prayer, journaling, or daily reflections.
Share Small Gifts as Acts of Charity
Since Ember Days also invite acts of giving, consider surprising someone with a small token of appreciation—a mug with an uplifting message, a bracelet with a scripture verse, or a Catholic gift under $30.
Think of:
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A teacher starting the new school year
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A parish priest or deacon
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A friend or neighbor going through a hard time
Gift Idea: Tea Light for Teacher – A heartfelt way to say “thank you” as school begins.
A Season of Reflection, Even in the Heat of Summer
Even though fall hasn't quite arrived—and we're still enjoying summer sunshine and family barbecues—Catholic Fall Ember Days remind us that faith moves in seasons too.
These days aren’t meant to interrupt your life—they’re here to enrich it. Whether through a family prayer night, a small act of charity, or simply pausing to thank God for your blessings, this season invites you to return to what matters most.
At GiftsWithLove.com, we’re honored to help your family grow in faith with meaningful, Catholic gifts that speak to the heart.
Ready to Prepare Your Heart and Home?
Browse our collection of faith-based gifts, home decor, and personalized items to help you embrace the upcoming Fall Ember Days with intention and love.