Pope Shenouda III
In the Book of Joel, we see an example of repentance that accompanies fasting.
The Lord addresses the people through His prophet saying: “Turn to Me with all your heart, With fasting, with weeping, and with mourning." So rend your heart, and not your garments; Return to the Lord your God, For He is gracious and merciful. “ (Joel 2:12,13). It is clear that fasting was accompanied by repentance and weeping. Therefore, it is not mere abstention from food. Rather, it is inner emotions towards God.
