Well, just explain:
“The Catholic Church recommends that on Ash Wednesday we fast to remind ourselves of the sacrifice Christ made and to help us reconnect with God this Lenten season.”
I find explaining the doctrine is sufficient, whatever the issue is. If they then say, “Wait, so are you saying I’m doing something wrong?” Say, according to the guidance and precepts of the Roman Catholic Church, yes, but since you were not aware of this teaching before, you can’t be blamed for not following it.
When they say, “So what if I don’t follow it?” or “Do I have to follow it now?” Say, “Well, that is what the Catholic Church says.” (Assuming they are Catholic.)
This method isn’t guaranteed to work, but hey. Then again, if they ask, ‘Why does the Church say this?’ then you have to explain the reasons the Church gives for each teaching.
Did this help?
-Niko
