In his sermon on Lent 2 Glynn explores the history, challenges, and benefits of self-constraint.

"Anglicans generally don’t favour self-denial. We have preferred a theology that affirms the good things in life and our participation in them. Instead of abstinence Anglicans have prepared for Easter by trying to be generous towards others. This Lent, for example, the Archbishops of Canterbury and York encouraged their followers to “help to make our communities, local or global, clean and secure places of generosity.”

Yet at its best the ancient admonition to fast for Lent invites Christians to question what we need and why. There is a deep truth that the more we depend on possessions the greater the danger that we will worship them."

See full text at http://www.stmatthews.org.nz/nav.php?sid=447&id=805