Why not eat meat on Fridays?/Meatless Recipies

Traditionally, catholics abstain from meat on Fridays. This changed in the 60s. Roman catholics now abstain from meat on Fridays during Lent. Anglo-catholics have meatless Fridays year-round (except for Fridays falling between Christmas and Epiphany), and Fridays and Wednesdays during Lent. Why Fridays? Christ was crucified on a Friday. Every Friday is a little Good Friday, and every Sunday is a little Easter. Giving up meat is a small sacrifice to remind of us of Jesus' much greater sacrifice. I must add that the Eastern Orthodox have a much more rigorous system of fasts that more closely mirrors the fasts of the ancient church. They give up oil, dairy, wine, and "anything with a backbone."

All this is to say that I will be sharing my favorite meatless recipes with you over the next few weeks. I hope to share some recipes for anyone who enjoys vegetarian meals and any Christian who chooses to observe little Good Fridays.

If you do not already have a favorite charity, I encourage you to look at Operation Rice Bowl. They encourage families to eat simple meals once or twice a week and collect the money they save to send to others in need. There is also a calendar with daily facts and prayers to be used during Lent. I'm sure you could adjust this concept to your own family, and perhaps save money to use for a local charity.

Stay tuned for a vegetarian recipe on Wednesday!