The body prepares with the soul
The Coptic Orthodox Church does not separate spiritual preparation from the body. Hunger, desire, tiredness, and discipline all become places where prayer is learned. Before Communion, fasting teaches the body to join the soul in waiting for Christ.
The practice is normally learned from the priest and the parish’s instruction. Many Coptic Christians abstain from food and drink from midnight until Communion, while children, the elderly, pregnant or nursing mothers, and people with medical needs receive pastoral guidance.
Examination and repentance
Let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup.
Fasting belongs with examination, confession, prayer, reconciliation, and attention during the Liturgy. SUSCopts describes true preparation as repentance from the heart, awe before the sacrament, and honest confession.
The fast therefore serves love and reverence. It teaches the communicant to come to the chalice as someone seeking mercy, healing, and life from Christ.
Pastoral guidance
The Eucharistic fast should be practiced under guidance, especially when health, medication, age, or weakness is involved. Ask Abouna ahead of time rather than inventing a rule alone. A clear blessing protects both reverence and peace of conscience.