, 12:05 am ET
Ash Wednesday is observed today, prompting many Roman Catholics to adjust their dietary habits throughout the day.
Ash Wednesday signifies the beginning of Lent, a 40-day period of reflection, prayer, and penance for Christians worldwide, leading up to Holy Friday and Easter.
This year, Ash Wednesday falls on . While various Christian denominations acknowledge the holy day, Roman Catholics adhere to specific rules regarding food consumption on Ash Wednesday.
Can I eat meat on Ash Wednesday?
The Roman Catholic Church requires all Roman Catholics aged 14 and older to abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday, according to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
Can you eat chicken on Ash Wednesday?
No. Chicken is considered meat.
Why can’t you eat meat on Ash Wednesday?
Roman Catholics believe Jesus sacrificed his flesh for humanity, and therefore refrain from consuming “flesh meat” on Ash Wednesday, according to the Archdiocese of Saint Paul & Minneapolis. Flesh meat encompasses the meat of mammals and poultry, including beef, pork, chicken, and turkey.
Can you eat fish on Ash Wednesday?
Yes. The “fish food category” includes cold-blooded animals that live in water and breathe through gills – such as cod, salmon, tuna, and halibut – as well as other cold-blooded animals like frogs, clams, turtles, shrimp, crab, and oysters, according to the archdiocese.
Why can you eat fish on Ash Wednesday?
Fish does not fall into the category of flesh meat. The Latin word for meat, “caro,” traditionally applies to flesh meat and has never been understood to include fish, according to the archdiocese. Historically, flesh meat was also associated with celebrations, while fish was not.
What can you eat on Ash Wednesday?
Roman Catholics are also permitted to consume non-flesh products of animals, such as milk, cheese, butter, eggs, and sauces made from animal fats.
Are you supposed to fast on Ash Wednesday?
Yes. The Church requires Roman Catholics between the ages of 18 and 59 to fast on Ash Wednesday, according to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
Ash Wednesday fasting requirements?
Roman Catholics are allowed to eat one full meal, along with two smaller meals that, combined, do not equal a full meal.
How long do you fast on Ash Wednesday?
Roman Catholics fast for the entire day on Ash Wednesday. There are no specific rules dictating when one can or cannot eat, but rather, the requirements concern the quantity of food consumed.
